Faenell Bartlett, age 94, a resident of Moatsville, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, unexpectedly on Monday, October 19, 2026.
Faenell was born on January 2, 1932, in Orange, California, a daughter of the late Earl Smith and Merle May Ruth Fink.
She was united in marriage to her loving husband, Richard Bartlett, who preceded her in death on July 20, 2014.
Faenell devoted much of her life to educating and encouraging others. She made her home in Baldi Mesa, California, for 12 years and enjoyed a rewarding career in education, teaching at Hesperia Junior High School for 12 years and Portland Christian High School for 17 years. She retired in 1992, leaving behind a lasting impression on the many students whose lives she had touched.
Above all else, Faenell loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, with all her heart. Her faith was the foundation of her life, guiding her in the way she loved, served, and cared for others. She was a faithful worshipper of Shiloh Church of the Brethren, where she found great joy in worship, fellowship, and sharing her love for the Lord. She especially enjoyed gathering with friends at the Shiloh Joy Brunch and the Tacy Senior Center. With a heart for helping others, Faenell generously gave her time volunteering with Heart and Hand, always finding happiness in being of service to those around her.
Faenell had a special appreciation for life’s simple blessings. She enjoyed reading, working puzzles, painting, coloring, and singing. Whether spending a quiet afternoon with a good book, creating something beautiful, or lifting her voice in song, she embraced the little things that brought joy to her days. Her gentle spirit, loving heart, and unwavering faith were blessings to all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Faenell leaves behind her children, son Charles Lynn Finster and wife Kathy and daughter Mary Lou Obbink; grandchildren, Scott Finster and wife Chelsea, Mark Finster, and Rebecca Finster; great-granddaughter, Sadie; and great-grandson, Isaac.
In addition to her parents and beloved husband, Faenell was preceded in death by her daughter, Lori Lynn; and sisters Erline Dearr, Pauline Jones, and Ruth Rees.
Services for Faenell will be private and held at the convenience of the family per her wishes.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Faenell’s memory to Heart and Hand, P.O. Box 128, Philippi, WV 26416.







Faenell was my dear, dear friend. When we sat together at Shiloh Joy Brunch or the ladies Fellowship on Texas Mountain, we were guilty of only talking to each other. Sometimes we held hands. But we had so much to share! When we talked on the phone, it would go on for more than an hour. I loved her quick mind, her silver hair, and that sometimes ornery twinkle in her eyes. We told each other things that we said to no one else. My heart is broken.
What a wonderful lady 💓
Eternal rest grant unto her, Oh Lord and may perpetual light shine upon her.
May her soul and the souls of all the faithful, through the mercy of God, Rest In Peace
I pray for comfort of the family of Fae as they mourn her loss.
We are so sorry for your loss. Prayers ~ Brian and Heidi Folmer
We are so sorry for your loss. Thankfully she is in heaven with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
I knew Faenell a long time ago that started in 1958 at Central Bible Church. She always had a smile and
was a light in the room. I was so thankful that she had twins and felt the Lord gave her some special
gifts. I lost track of her for a few years but was reconnected though Fae VanDiest Brown Singletary.
I am thankful for the influence of Faenell during my late high school years at Central Bible Church. Marilyn and I have had sporadic contact with her through the years.
Steve and I remember Faenell and the twins, especially Mary Lou. What a comfort to know where she is now! Prayers for her family during this time.