Gene Menzies Frye

Published in Charlotte Observer on September 1, 2009

Mr. Frye, 78, of Charlotte, died Saturday, August 29, 2009, at the VA Medical Center in Salisbury.

A native of Hickory, NC, Mr. Frye was born to the late Hershel J. Frye and Essie Ellen Jonas Frye on January 4, 1931. He was a graduate of Hickory High School and Lenoir Rhyne College. Mr. Frye was a former professional baseball player for the Yankees farm team and he was a coach and teacher for most of his life. He is preceded in death by a brother, William Jennings Frye.

Mr. Frye is survived by his wife of 58 years, Betty Lou Perkins Frye of the home; children, Gene Allen Frye and wife Clara of Charlotte, Elizabeth Ellen Frye Canales and husband Francisco of Midland; sister, Marilyn Joy Frye Ross of Huntersville; eight grandsons; seven great-grandsons and two great-granddaughters.

A memorial service will be held 1:00p.m. Wednesday, September 2 at Hickory Grove United Methodist Church with Rev. Arnie Corriher and Rev. Robert Moore officiating.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday following the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the ASPCA, PO Box 30484, Charlotte, NC 28230 or to the Alzheimer's Association -Western Carolina Chapter, 3800 Shamrock Dr., Charlotte, NC 28215.

Arrangements are by Wilson Funeral and Cremation Service, Charlotte.
www.wilsonfuneralservices.com.