Esther Renee Farwell  1972 – Apr 28, 2023

Loved ones mourn the loss of Esther Renee Farwell Spencer Henry of Sarasota, Florida on April 28, 2023. Renee, as friends and family knew her, lived a rich life that we remember even as we regret her passing after a struggle with mental illness ended her life prematurely.

Renee was born in England in 1972 to Martha Esther (Parker) Farwell and Richard Gary Farwell, Sr. During her childhood the family lived near Tampa, FL and Austin, TX. Unfortunately, Renee’s mother ‘Marti’ passed away from cancer when Renee was only 18.

Several years later Renee married John Spencer who she met in Austin. Renee postponed plans of pursuing an architectural degree to support her husband’s medical school studies, and when he finished she became the office manager of his practice. Renee was personable, friendly, and wore many hats in this role. They worked hard together and enjoyed their mutual passions of motorcycle racing, nature, hiking, cruises, and their beloved dogs. It was during this time that Renee found her passion and became a highly trained yogi. She loved teaching yoga and dreamed of opening a studio. Renee cared deeply about the wellness and happiness of others and wished to help people manage the pursuit of these through yoga. This proved to be an important part of her worldview. Unfortunately, tragedy struck again with her husband’s unexpected death in 2011, and the challenges of being a widow strained Renee’s health. Nevertheless, Renee continually fought to hold on to hope.

Renee moved to Sarasota the following year. Hope took root for a lovely period when Renee met Kyle Henry. They found the best parts of themselves deeply reflected in each other and quickly became a loving couple (along with Renee’s beloved dog, Chloe), celebrating their relationship with a beautiful commitment ceremony on the beach, after which they considered themselves married soulmates. They shared many passions and philosophies and worked hard to make their dreams a reality. Tragically, Renee’s battle with mental illness claimed her life in April. They deserved much more time and happiness together than they got.

Renee is preceded in death by her mother and father, and her first husband. She is survived by her partner-husband Kyle, one grandmother, three siblings, and multiple aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and others whose lives she touched. There will not be a public memorial service.

Mental illness is a painful subject that we do not concede as shameful. Like any disease, it can affect any person and any family. We uphold Renee’s legacy as a fighter. Renee deserved better access to treatment and a chance at a longer, happier life, as we all do. If this moves you to donate in Renee’s name, please consider supporting the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in Sarasota or your local NAMI chapter.

Reject shame and stigma. If you or a loved one are in crisis, suicide prevention support is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988, and other resources are available at https://namisarasotamanatee.org/crisis-info/. You are not alone.

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