Barbara Ann “Bobbie” (Farley) Sorlie, 86, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, December 28, 2025. Born in Lagro, Indiana, Bobbie was the beloved daughter of the late Russell J. and Veva Mae (Rickert) Farley.
Bobbie graduated from Chester Township High School in North Manchester, class of 1957. On June 21, 1958, she married the love of her life, James Sorlie, in North Manchester. Together they shared a faithful, loving marriage that spanned 58 years, until Jim’s passing in 2016.
Bobbie began her career with Sears Roebuck in 1963 at the Rudisell location and retired in 2001 from the Brooklyn Avenue store. She took pride in her work and was known for her dependability and friendly nature.
Faith was the cornerstone of Bobbie’s life. She began her walk with the Lord at an early age and remained a faithful servant throughout her years. She attended Packerton Evangelical United Brethren Church and North Manchester Evangelical United Brethren Church, was a charter member of Epworth United Methodist Church from 1960–1986, attended Believers Fellowship from 1986–1988, and had been a devoted member of Fellowship Missionary Church since 1988. Bobbie was baptized in faith by David DeSelm on April 23, 1995, a moment she held dear.
Above all else, Bobbie was a loving wife, devoted mother, and deeply cherished grandma. She was the kind of grandma who never missed a school program, sporting event, or special milestone. Her home was always a place of comfort, warmth, and full plates—if you visited, you were never leaving hungry. She would ask more than once if you were full, just to be sure.
Bobbie enjoyed fellowship with others and was active in several church groups, including a beloved ladies group known as “The 12 Bells.” They gathered once a month to play Bunko, often late into the night, sharing laughter and lasting friendships.
She is survived by her daughters, Diane Linville and Darlene Saxton; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren, with one more on the way; and her brother-in-law, Lee Whaley.
Bobbie was preceded in death by her husband, James Sorlie; her siblings, Russell Farley Jr., Arlene Merriett, and Rosie Whaley; and her son-in-law, Mark Linville.
A service celebrating Bobbie’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Fellowship Missionary Church, 2536 E. Tillman Road, with calling one hour prior. Calling will also be held at the church on Friday, January 2, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery in Ossian, Indiana.
Memorials may be made to Fellowship Missionary Church.