Jean Ann (Elias) Pharr

Jean Ann (Elias) Pharr, 61, of Springdale passed away at Circle of Life in Springdale, Ark. on January 3, 2016. Jean was born September 14, 1954, in Streator, Illinois to William J. Elias and Laura H. (Schenk) Elias. Jean graduated from Streator High School where she was President of her senior class. After graduating from the University of Arkansas in 1977, she began a 31-year mathematics teaching career at Fayetteville High School. She passed on to her students her deep knowledge and love of AP Calculus and they, in turn, consistently received the highest scores possible in this college level course. Her students felt both challenged and safe in her classroom. One former student remarked, "She is one of those teachers who cares and makes a difference in the lives of her students." Besides her academic skills, her students also admired her ride – her treasured Harley Davidson. After retiring from Fayetteville High School in 2008, Jean worked as the Math Content Director for the Arkansas Advanced Initiative for Math and Science, where she continued to share her love and expertise of AP Calculus in high schools throughout the state. Jean and her husband, Chuck, were also teachers and leaders in the youth ministry of their church for over 20 years. Jean had a passion for sharing the love of Christ, and for connecting and building relationships. Jean is survived by her husband, Chuck Pharr of 41 years, two daughters, Alexis Necessary and husband Marcus of Cave Springs, Camille Pharr of Charlotte, North Carolina; two grandchildren, Walker and William Necessary. Jean and Chuck raised their daughters on Beaver Lake where, on most summer days, you could find Jean happily driving her boat or water skiing. Many of her high school students and Sunday School classes have fond memories of their first water skiing lesson with Jean. Since March, Jean felt privileged to have so many friends and family visit her. She was humbled by the outpouring of love and compassion she received. She especially appreciated all those who remembered her and her family in their prayers. It was her faith in Christ that was her rock, her hope, and strength during these many trying months. This strong faith leaves us with hope of being with her again. A gathering of friends and family will be held on Friday, January 8 from 6 to 8 p.m. at The First United Methodist Church in Springdale. A memorial service will be held at The First United Methodist Church of Springdale on Saturday, January 9 at 10:30 a.m. with Pastor Andrew Thompson officiating. With Jean's passing we are reminded that life is to be celebrated. Please join us in honoring her life. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Jean Pharr Memorial Endowment at the Fayetteville Public Education Foundation, 877 W. Clinton Dr., Fayetteville, Ark. 72701. To view the online blog for Jean Pharr https://www.mylifeline.org/JeanPharr/updates. To sign the online guestbook please visit www.siscofuneral.com.