Jackie Farry, who worked in radio promotion at Atlantic and Epic Records before becoming a tour manager for music acts like Elliott Smith, The Lemonheads and Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, died on January 12 from complications related to a lung disease. She was 58.
Farry’s career in the music industry began at Homestead Records, where she was a receptionist as the fledgling New York label was building a rep for signing influential indie rock bands in the 1980s. Farry quickly climbed the ranks in the business, making impactful contributions at Atlantic Records, where she worked from 1988 to 1989, and Epic Records, from 1991 to 1992, in radio promotion, specifically in the metal realm.
Her passion for music and the magnetic pull she seemed to have on everyone around her led to her becoming Frances Bean Cobain’s nanny from birth to toddlerhood — a role she cherished deeply. Her adventure in the music world didn’t stop there. Later in the ’90s, Farry became a tour manager for bands like The Lemonheads, Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, Elliott Smith, Quasi, Stereolab and Quintron.
She went on to showcase her charisma and deep knowledge of music as the host of MTV’s short-lived but memorable show Super Rock.
Born in New York, Jacquelyn Beth Farry was raised in the controversial Synanon community, an experience she often spoke about — to a rapt audience — with a sparkle in her eye. “Jackie carried with her an incredible trove of memories and songs from those formative years,” says longtime friend Janet Billig Rich.
In 2003, Farry’s life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with cancer. With the strength and tenacity of a warrior, she fought her battle with grace and resilience. Her friends rallied around her, organizing “Fuck Cancer” benefits, where bands like The Breeders and Guided by Voices performed in her honor. This support inspired Farry to create a line of “Fuck Cancer” beanies and hats, channeling her fight into helping others facing similar battles.
Adds Rich: “Jackie’s love for music was matched only by her sharp wit, humor, and magnetic personality. She was a beacon for friends and strangers alike, drawing people in with her infectious energy.”
Farry had a lifelong love for the color pink and for pit bulls — the two passions intersected in her efforts to rescue pit bulls from Prince George’s County, Maryland and promote their adoption by dressing the dogs in cute outfits.
True to her trailblazer past, Farry embraced the concept of a death doula, working with Katie Klakos for several years to prepare for her passing.
She leaves behind her beloved dogs, Forrest, Ruby and Mary; her devoted partner Aimee Swartz; her mother Maddi Levine; and her stepmother Terry Farry.
In honor of her love for pit bulls, donations can be made to LovePaws, Farry’s charity of choice.
“Jackie Farry’s legacy is one of love, laughter and an indomitable spirit,” says Rich. “She will be deeply missed — her unforgettable stories, her humor and her impact on those who knew her will live on forever.”
English (US) ·