What document described John as "late of Liverpool"? Was it in relation to her criminal trial? I think that this would mean that he used to live in Liverpool rather than being deceased.
Re: the surname "Farning", I am wondering if this is a mistranscription or error in interpretation of the surname as spoken by Susannah. Perhaps she had an accent?
Can you tell us the exact wording for Brookshaw Farning marriage? Earlier you said an alternative surname was Farnon - on what document did Farnon appear?
It is odd that there are no people with the surname Farning in the 1841 and 1851 census. (I have not checked bmds or other censuses).
Added: My "Irish" theory was just an passing thought based on the surnames. I don't know the reasons behind those amondg mentions for believing this, but it would be good to find out.
