Definition
Marsha Farney (born March 6, 1958) is an American businesswoman and former Republican member of the Texas House of Representatives, where she represented District 20 from 2013 to 2017.
Overview
Farney was born in Vernon, Texas. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Texas A&M University–Commerce (formerly East Texas State University). After working as a public‑school teacher, she entered the real‑estate industry, becoming a licensed broker and later the president of a real‑estate firm.
In 2012, Farney was elected to the Texas House of Representatives, succeeding fellow Republican Charles H. “Chuck” Hopson. During her two‑term tenure, she served on several committees, including Appropriations, Education, and Public Health. Her legislative interests centered on education policy, property‑tax reform, and business‑friendly regulations.
Farney ran for the Texas Senate in District 25 in the 2018 primary election but was defeated in the runoff. Since leaving elective office, she has remained active in community affairs and the Texas Republican Party.
Etymology/Origin
- Marsha is an English feminine given name derived from “Margaret,” which originates from the Greek word margaritēs meaning “pearl.”
- Farney is a surname of Irish origin, considered a variant of “Farney” or “Farnan,” likely derived from the Gaelic Ó Fearnadha meaning “descendant of Fearnadh,” a personal name related to “alder tree.”
Characteristics
- Political affiliation: Republican
- Professional background: Education (teacher), real‑estate brokerage, business executive
- Legislative focus: Education funding, property‑tax relief, regulatory reform for small businesses
- Committee assignments: Appropriations Committee, Education Committee, Public Health Committee (among others)
- Electoral history: Elected to Texas House District 20 (2012, 2014); lost Republican primary runoff for Texas Senate District 25 (2018)
Related Topics
- Texas House of Representatives
- Texas Republican Party
- Texas House District 20
- Texas Senate District 25
- Real‑estate brokerage in Texas
- Education policy in Texas