Ferne Carolyn Haghiri, age 95, of Wooster, Ohio was called to Heaven on June 28, 2025. Ferne, daughter of Roy and Carrie Epperson of Wahoo, Nebraska, and loving wife of Dr. Faz Haghiri, passed away after living a full and wondrous life. She is survived by her husband Faz, daughter Jean (Stephan Foutz) of Wooster, OH, son Steven (Lorri) of Pickerington, OH, and son David (Nicole) of Port Clinton, OH. She is also survived by six grandchildren, Nicholas, Nathaniel, Christopher, Allison, Gabriel, and Aubrey, all living in the Ohio area.
Ferne was a professional musician and Elementary school teacher. Her career and love for music began when she was 5 years old. She became the church pianist while in high school. She learned how to play the Hammond organ by practicing at a local funeral home in Wahoo as it was the only organ in town. Ferne also was very talented with the cornet and accordion. She had professional gigs as a freshman at DOANE college. Starting in 1949, traveling dance bands and a traveling polka band furthered her career in music. Ferne received a degree in Education with a minor in Music. Ferne arrived in Wooster in 1959. She became the full-time organist for the Wooster United Methodist Church in 1967 and held that position until her retirement 33 years later. Ferne also played the organ for numerous weddings and funerals over the decades. She was the full-time organist at McIntire Davis and Green Funeral Home. She was also an elementary teacher with Orville, Smithville, Wooster, and Triway School districts. She mastered not only the piano and organ, but was also self-taught with the hammer dulcimer, recorder, and keyboards. Ferne performed in small group Duos, Trios, and Quintets. With all her musical talents, her most fond and satisfying achievement was with tutoring children with specific needs and giving them that extra help to succeed. She taught Kindergarten, Special Needs, and was a substitute teacher for many years in the local school systems.
Ferne had a love for the local community and had countless, dear friends. She was involved in many groups including the Wooster Music Club (formerly McDowell Music Club), the Thursday Club, Viola Thorne Club, and directed the Hand Bell Choir with the Methodist Church. Ferne also shared her mother’s passion for quilting and was a founding member of the “Lappers”, a group of volunteers from local churches that made lap quilts for veteran hospitals. Ferne enjoyed vacationing in Destin, Florida during the winter months at Hidden Dunes Tennis Resort, where she made many friends during her retirement years.
The world may have lost a bright light, but Heaven has gained an angel. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends. A private family service will be held at McIntire Bradham & Sleek Funeral Home. Special thanks to the staff, residents and their families in the Memory Care Unit at Danbury Senior Living in Wooster, Ohio.
In Ferne’s memory, donations may be made to the Wooster Music Club c/o Judithe Craig, P.O. Box 1863, Wooster, Ohio 44691 in lieu of flowers.
Private Services to held at a later date.
McIntire, Bradham & Sleek Funeral Home 216 E. Larwill St., Wooster is assisting the family.
Online condolences may be directed to www.mcintirebradhamsleek.com.
Ferne was a lovely and gracious woman who was alway supportive and kind. She will be greatly missed!
What a wonderfully talented woman. I wish I would have known her. Blessings to all.
Oh, My goodness! My kindergarten teacher was Mrs.hagari! I wonder if this is her! Condolences to the family.and she played piano for mcIntire bradham and sleek? I don’t remember much about her,but I’ll bet it’s her! Heaven gained an Angel!
We so enjoyed getting to know Ferne during winters at Hidden Dunes. Meals with her and Faz were always memorable occasions, and thoroughly enjoyable with great food, wonderful conversations, and much laughter. She was the perfect foil for Faz’s stories. We will miss her so very much!
Such a Dear Friend and Fabulous Lady who played for our wedding and was a cherished neighbor and beloved friend to our entire family. You’re playing beautiful music from above Ferne.
Much Love, Greg and Darby
It has been an honor and a pleasure to get to know Ferne and Jeanie while mom has been at Danbury. She played the piano for us almost every day until just the last few months. I had always heard of Ferne but am glad I finally had the honor of spending time with this legend. Rest In Peace Ferne – we will miss you.
Sorry for your lost
Ferne blessed so many people over the years with her beautiful music. She was a part of Wooster Music Club for decades, and was a wonderful member as a leader, musician, and friend. What a delight to be around! We will miss her!
Ferne was my kindergarten teacher at Smithville Elementary 65 years ago. She taught us so many fun songs and accompanied the class’s singing on piano. She later became a dear friend through Wooster Music Club and the many ensembles we were part of with recorders, dulcimer, and her beautiful piano or organ accompaniment. She accompanied me at both of my parents’ funerals, at Music Club, and at a Hospice Memorial service. Ferne was also an excellent choral director. She was always encouraging and supportive of musicians of all ages, instilling confidence in them and their abilities. More than once, when I expressed doubt about my being able to perform a piece of music, she would say, “of course you can!” She is missed by many. My deepest condolences to Faz and their family.
Mrs. Haghiri,
You were my Kindergarten teacher at Beall Avenue in Wooster. I can remember learning the alphabet from you and then I taught them to my little sister. You were so kind and made going to school fun. Rest in peace. Heaven gained an angel.
She was my kindergarten teacher at Smithville. I remember her fondly.
Ferne’s performances for Wooster Music Club were always awe-inspiring! She had a wonderful spirit! My deepest sympathies to her family and loved ones.
Sorry to hear of your mother’s passing, Jean. She seems to have lived her life to the fullest! Take care. Morgan Condo
Please accept my sincere condolences. What a bright light Ferne gave to everyone!
Dr Haghiri, sorry to hear of your loss. I didn’t know your wife, but you were always one of my favorite people at OARDC. Nancy Daly Smith (I worked for Jess Power with insurance claims)
My wife & I had the privilege of getting to know Ferne while visiting a friend at Danbury memory care wing. She still entertained everyone with her beautiful piano music. It was so special. She also wanted us to know that her name is Ferne that’s with an “e”! A truly special lady. May the family know how much she touched others and hold onto all the warm memories. Cheers to a beautiful woman!
Our dear Ferne will surely be missed. She made my visits to Mom enjoyable every time she played the piano–either hymns or classic favorites. Sometimes we sang along! What a lovely lady! May God comfort her family and give peace that passes all understanding during this time of grief and lovely memories.
I remember how I used to walk up the road for my piano lessons. I enjoyed the lessons — she was always very encouraging. I just wish I had been a better student! I used to “accidentally” stick sheet music from a music popular song in with my piano books. The music was beyond my ability to play, but she would play it for me and we would sing the lyrics together. I also enjoyed being her page-turner at a wedding or two.She was a wonderful neighbor, teacher and friend.
I am so blessed to get to know Ferne and Jeannie in memory at Danbury as my husband Larry is there also. She ate at our table and her smile brightened my day. I miss her sitting there and the little comments she would make. Jeannie is a wonderful friend to me and will continue to be. I’m glad I got to meet you too Faz you are in my prayers. Ferne is playing in heaven rejoicing now. Happy and well. Love and prayers to you and your family. God is with you. Hold on to Him.
It was wonderful getting to know Ferne when I worked at Wooster UMC. She was so gracious as we started The Lappers, and learning that she was a great friend of my moms from Viola Thorne.
I knew Ferne for such a short time. But time does not exist when you find a friend like Ferne. She was a kind, loving, giving spirit who took a place in the hearts of those who knew her. She will be missed but she takes her place in mine with the other special people I have had the privilege to know and love. Sending love and light to the Haghiri family.
Ferne was the most wonderful person you would ever want to meet. I grew up on Tuckahoe Rd and have so many great memories of our families together, she and my Mom would take all of us kids on adventures, she taught us how to play the piano, and it was a joy for everyone to know her. Last Fall my Mom entered Danbury memory care, and by some miracle Ferne was there and had the room right next to my Mom’s. I asked her to look after Mom for me, and she did! The staff would tell me that she watched over Mom and would tell them that this was her friend. I will always love and remember Ferne, she was such a special person. I take comfort in knowing we will all see her again and this is just a temporary separation. Faz, Jean, Steve, Dave, my thoughts are with you all.
What a beautiful life lived and will deeply missed. Ferne touched many lives and was loved by many. Faz, and family, we are sending all of our love and condolences.
Dear Faz, so sorry to hear about the passing of Ferne!! It’s a privilege to sped time with you both. Please BE STRONG! My deepest sympathy to you and family !! Hugs!!
When I became the choir director at Wooster UMC in 2009, Ferne was the organist. We formed a great relationship right from the beginning. She taught me so much in her subtle but firm way. She didn’t believe hymns should be played like a dirge. I grew into my position there with her encouragement. She had music in her soul and we are all the better for it.
I was blessed to have known her.
I only learned to know Ferne over the past couple of years, but somehow I feel like I have known her much longer. She was such a delight in the memory care unit at Danbury. When she played the piano, it became more calm and so very inviting. Her talents were many and she shared them beautifully. She has touched the lives of so many and will be remembered with great respect for all she accomplished. May her family be blessed with memories of her devotion to them. With sympathy, Pat
With deep gratitude and a touch of sadness, I remember my beloved Nanna. Her life was truly remarkable, and I cherish every moment we shared. Nanna’s dedication to music and her profound passion for helping others genuinely made the world a brighter place. Her love, kindness, and strength will continue to inspire all who knew her, and her beautiful spirit will forever be held close in our hearts.
Ferne was instrumental in my formation as a musician. She was a longtime neighbor and friend. I can still hear her playing the piano during the summertime at Tuckahoe. The windows were open, and her glorious rehearsing was always exciting to hear.
Some of my fondest memories with Ferne were our car rides together to choir rehearsal at the Methodist church. She was a music mentor who spoke my language, and we would discuss everything from the choral arrangements to the tenors not being able to find their pitch!
Faz, I hope you take comfort in knowing how important Ferne was to me, and how appreciative I remain for her steadfast
support as a friend and mentor.
May she Rest in Peace and Rise In Glory
I grew up with the family and have such great memories of the neighborhood and all our get togethers. I remember listening to Ferne play the piano and all of us sitting around and listening. She was a special lady. I just loved Ferne and the whole family. She will be greatly missed but will always be in my heart and memories.
Ferne’s heart was made of music and kindness. Her laughter felt like a song, and her gift for teaching touched so many, both as an instructor and while singing beside her. She was joy, encouragement, and warmth all in one. I will miss her dearly and forever remember her. Faz was obviously her soulmate and a visit with them was both healing and life giving! Sending lots of love and comfort in these difficult days.
Much love,
Celia and Jim Smart
I remember taking piano lessons at Mrs. Haghiri’s house. I always thought she was such a kind beautiful woman. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Jean and your father. Losing our loved ones is so hard but the blessings of memories lives forever in our hearts.
Jean so so sorry about the loss of your mom💕
My deepest sympathy to you and your Dad.
I’m truly heartbroken to hear of her passing. It was a privilege to care for her and to be a small part of her journey. Even in moments when words were few, her spirit, grace, and quiet strength spoke volumes. She had a light about her that touched everyone around her — a presence that made the unit feel warmer, gentler. I will always carry deep respect and affection for her, and I feel honored to have known her. My thoughts are with her family and all who loved her.
I am so sorry for the loss of your mom. What a wonderful woman and fantastic musician.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
I’m so blessed to have know Ferne and had the great privilege to refer to her as mom. Faz and Ferne have always treated me as one of the kids, going back to when Steve and I were roommates at school. Ferne’s kind and warm smile was always present and infectious. God bless ya Mom, miss ya.
I have known Jean & her mom for a long time, but lost contact with Jean after high school. I’ve volunteered at Hospice in children’s bereavement for awhile, but I was asked to visit with a client who was very involved in music throughout her life because of my own involvement in music & music therapy. I recognized her name right away! Although I didn’t not get to visit with Ferne long, I enjoyed the time we had. We spent time talking about teaching piano lessons & her eyes lit up when I talked about my students recent recital & I was going to bring the recording for her to listen to.
Jean – you, your dad, & brothers are in my thoughts & prayers. Ferne is at peace & making music again!
My last and most treasured memory of Ferne was a few months before she went into assisted living. I was invited for dinner one evening. Faz had prepared a delicious walleye with all the trimmings. After dinner Ferne invited me to go over some music with her. She asked me to come sit beside her at the piano. She played and I turned the pages. We sang hit songs from our younger years. What a great evening and memory.
Faz, I know there are no words to ease your sorrow, but please know that you and your family are in my thoughts during this difficult time.
Ferne’s beautiful spirit and loving nature were a gift to all who knew her. Her music lives on in the hearts of many.
We were all saddened to hear back in Nebraska of our cousin passing. Fern was always so talented with her knowledge of teaching & music. What a beautiful angel has gained in heaven Our sympathies to the family
Godspeed to Ferne and may God bless her family and friends.
Ferne only became part of our lives a few years ago after having been introduced to her and Faz through their daughter, Jeannie and her husband Steve.
Ferne was the epitome of grace and love. We embraced our friendship with her and Faz. We were blessed to be recepients of her talent as an accomplished pianist and so enjoyed listening to her perform for us.
Ferne was a wonderful friend to the Evans family and beautiful musician. She played for our wedding and for the times we had to say goodbye. She is certainly making beautiful music in heaven now with many of our friends and parents who have left us. Thank you for sharing her with all of her students and choirs over the years. We send our deepest condolences. Marnie Evans Reber
Dear Dr. Faz & Family,
Deepest condolences on the passing of your wonderful wife and loving mother.
You and Ferne were a special part of our growing up on Tuckahoe… always welcoming and kind to a wild bunch of kids. My parents also treasured having you and Ferne as neighbors and friends.
She shared her incredible gift of music with so many people. Frankly, I was always in awe of her talents especially every Sunday when I could see her head peeking over the organ at church… leading us in hymns.
May you find comfort in this difficult time knowing that your wife and mother was cherished and loved by countless people.
Ferne was well know for her musical talent. I loved coming from Florida to visit Faz and Ferne. She would play the piano, and we would sing old songs. It was so enjoyable.
But our winters in Florida were exciting also. We often ate together and were able to celebrate both Ferne’s and Faz’s birthdays as well as their anniversary.
Many people probably do not know that Ferne was the straight person for Faz’s jokes. One anniversary dinner, he started a story about a dog they had. We all assumed it was a joke, but Ferne said no, and told us how they wanted a dog for their children. When she was pregnant for one of their children she told a nurse about it and the nurse happened to have a dog. So we assumed the story was true. As he told the story she often correct him as he told the story. But in the end, it was one of Faz’s jokes made even more special by Ferne. I wish I could add a few pictures we took that evening.
Ferne was such a beautiful woman. We love you and miss you.
Ferne was a wonderful woman who touched the lives of many. Sending thoughts and prayers to your family.
We were blessed to have Ferne and the entire Haghiri family as neighbors for many years on Tuckahoe Road, growing up together. She was not only a wonderful friend, but our piano teacher and organist at all of our weddings. I always remember her smiles, her positivity and energy -and marveled as I read about her amazing life!
Our families share such good memories of potlucks, park cleanup days, kindergarten carpooling (and wondering what mischief the sons in our two families were currently up to!). Keeping all of you in our hearts at this time, and praying that you find His peace and comfort in the days ahead.
A wonderful woman!! A privilege to get to know her and her family!! Her smile brightened my day many times and I will deeply miss her!! Prayers of comfort for you all during this difficult time!!
Ferne, Wishing you well on your continued journey in heaven. I know your sweet daughter Jean and I loved reading and experiencing you’ve experienced in this lifetime. What a gift you have been to so many. Sending you off with lots of love. And love to your sweet family.
Mabel and I were truly blessed to have known Ferne; myself from having had the opportunity to be a part of Ferne and Faz’s life through serving as their physician for the last few years and Mabel through working with Faz at the OARDC for many years. Being a part of their lives has been a real joy for me, and truly an inspiration. Having been together as a couple through 72 years of marriage is quite remarkable, for sure, and stands as a wonderful testament and model. Faz, our thoughts and prayers are with you and all of your family! May God bless and welcome Ferne into eternal joy!