Jackie Varey, who worked in radio promotion at Atlantic and Epic Records before becoming a tour manager for such musical acts as Elliott Smith, The Lemonheads and Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, died Sunday of complications from lung disease. She was 58 years old.
Vari’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 to sign influential indie rock bands of the 1980s. Vari rose rapidly in the industry, making influential contributions at Atlantic Records, where she worked from 1988 to 1989, and at Epic Records, from 1991 to 1992, in radio promotion, specifically in the world of metal.
Her passion for music and the magnetic pull she had on everyone around her led her to become Frances Bean Cobain’s nanny from birth through childhood – a role she deeply cherished. Her adventure in the world of music did not stop there. Later in the 1990s, Farry became tour manager for bands such as The Lemonheads, Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, Elliott Smith, Quasi, Stereolab and Quintron.
She continued to demonstrate her charisma and deep knowledge of music as host of the short-lived but memorable MTV show. Super rock.
Born in New York, Jacqueline Beth Farry grew up in the controversial Synanon community, an experience she spoke about often—to enthusiastic audiences—with a sparkle in her eyes. “Jackie carried with her an incredible treasure trove of memories and songs from those formative years,” says her longtime friend Janet Billig-Rich.
In 2003, Fari’s life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with cancer. With the strength and determination of a warrior, she fought her battle with grace and flexibility. Her friends rallied around her, organizing a “Fuck Cancer” benefit, with bands like The Breeders and Guided by Voices performing in her honour. This support inspired Fari to create a line of “Fuck Cancer” hats and beanies, channeling her fight into helping others facing similar battles.
“Jackie’s love of music was matched only by her sharp wit, sense of humor and engaging personality,” Rich adds. “She was a beacon to friends and strangers alike, drawing people in with her infectious energy.”
Fari has had a lifelong love of the color pink and pit bulls – two passions intersecting in her efforts to rescue pit bulls from Prince George’s County, Maryland and promote their adoption by dressing up in cute dog clothes.
True to her pioneering past, Vari embraced the concept of a death doula, and worked with Katie Klakos for several years to prepare for her death.
She leaves behind her beloved dogs, Forrest, Ruby and Mary; her devoted partner Amy Swartz; Her mother is Maddie Levin. and her stepmother, Terry Farry.
In honor of his love of bulls, donations can be made to him LovePawsVari’s favorite charity.
“Jackie Vari’s legacy is one of love, laughter and indomitable spirit,” says Rich. “She will be greatly missed. Her unforgettable stories, sense of humor and impact on those who knew her will be remembered forever.”
