Honoring the Life of Brother Jonathan McFarland

April 29, 2026

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SMART-TD mourns the loss of Brother Jonathan McFarland (Local 1545, Monroe, La.), who passed away on April 19, 2026, at the age of 45.

An engineer for Union Pacific since 2014, Brother McFarland was involved in a multi-vehicle accident on Interstate 10 and left the scene on foot. Sadly, he was found in a swamp close to the crash site several days later.

A Meal Train has been set up to ease the burden on his family as they grieve their beloved husband and father. If you’re able and willing to do so, please consider signing up to provide a meal for the family or contributing to the donation fund.

A Man of Deep Faith and a Dedicated Railroader

After graduating from Crowville High School and the United Theological Seminary where he earned a Master’s Degree in Theology, Brother McFarland enlisted and served in the Army National Guard for 27 years.

He was a member of Alpha Lodge No. 9, Free and Accepted Masons, PHA of Monroe, Louisiana, where he served as second in command as the Senior Warden of the lodge.

Brother McFarland also served as a deacon at Union Valley Baptist Church, the same parish where he was baptized.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 21 years, Betty, son Jonathan Terrell McFarland II (JT), his parents, Oliver and Marilynn McFarland, two brothers, two sisters, his grandmother, and a long list of extended family and friends.

Louisiana State Safety & Legislative Director Chris Christianson is a member of the same local and says that the impact of the loss is being felt amongst his brothers and sisters.

“The loss of a fellow railroader always hurts, but it’s even more painful when it’s a member of your local” he said. “Brother McFarland had a car at the away from home terminal and never made it back home after the accident. We continue to mourn for his wife, son, and family and are willing to support them in any way possible.”

Railroaders take care of one another, especially when the unthinkable happens. Now, it’s time for us to do the same for Brother McFarland’s family as they process this devastating loss.