Kristal Leigh Farmer 1969-2024

Kristal Leigh Farmer, 55, passed away peacefully on Dec. 21, 2024 in Quitman. Kristal was born on April 24, 1969 in Mineola to James Donald West and Mary Martha Dykes West. After graduating from Mineola High School, she went on to obtain her teaching certificate from Stephen F. Austin.

As a dedicated and compassionate educator, Kristal began her service as a public-school teacher at Marshall ISD. After working at Marshall ISD for four years, Kristal found her home at Pittsburg ISD. After 28 years of service with PISD, she retired. She inspired countless students and colleagues with her commitment to education. In April 2022 Kristal was named Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce “Educator of the Year,” and in November 2022 she received the “Pirate Gold Award.” She believed deeply in the power of knowledge and was passionate about nurturing her students’ minds and helping them reach their full potential.

Kristal’s warm and caring nature extended beyond the classroom. Her greatest loves were her son, Jeremy, and grandson, Jameson. She was also a fabulous Aunt “KK” to her nieces and nephews. In their words, “KK” was cool!

She will be remembered for her love for Jesus, kindness, unwavering patience and her ability to touch the lives of those around her in meaningful ways. She leaves behind a legacy of love, learning and service that will be cherished by all who knew and loved her.

Her family, friends, students and colleagues mourn the loss of an incredibly strong and resilient woman but celebrate the profound impact she had on so many lives. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Mary West, and sister, Kimberly Lynn. 

Left to cherish her memory are her son, Jeremy Dee Farmer; grandson, Jameson Dee Farmer; brother, Damon West and wife Teresa; and special aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives, colleagues and students who will miss her dearly. 

Memorial services for Kristal will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025 at Lowe-Gardner Funerals & Cremations in Quitman, with Brother Terry Davis officiating.

In lieu of flowers, a scholarship account has been opened in honor of Kristal at My Credit Union, 415 W. Broad St., Mineola, Texas 75773. Checks can be made payable to Damon West. You may also mail donations to Damon West, 1156 CR 2339, Mineola, Texas 75773. 

Your donations will help us continue to honor Kristal’s love for teaching and the futures of graduates from Mineola ISD and Pittsburg ISD.