On April 15, 2013, drama teacher Rawley T. Farnsworth passed away at the age of 87. He had retired from teaching in the early 80’s and moved to Dillon Beach, where he lived until his partner passed away. He then moved to San Francisco, where he lived for more than 30 years. Around 2008, he moved to Fort Lauderdale FL, and later Ocala FL. to be closer to family members. He passed away from pneumonia after a long, and not very successful convalescence after a fall.

In memory of Mr. Farnsworth, a Teaching Fellowship was created with ACT (American Conservatory Theatre) in San Francisco. His family, Trudi Stillwell Melohn and Tom Hanks helped to make this Fellowship possible. The Farnsworth Fellowship funds a program which sends a teaching artist to schools in disadvantages areas, who do not have arts programs available to them. This seems like a very fitting tribute to a teacher who made such a difference in so many students lives. If you have fond memories of Mr. Farnsworth, perhaps you can consider making a donation to the teaching fund.