John R. Frye , age 77 of Alexandria, passed away on Wednesday, October 20, 2021 at Ascension-St. Vincent Regional Hospital in Anderson following a brief illness.  He was born October 1, 1944 in Elwood, the son of Robert James and Stella Mae (Harris) Frye.  John worked as a machine attendant at Thompson Consumer Electronics / RCA in Marion for over 30 years until the business closed.  He attended Wendell L. Willkie High School and later proudly served in the U.S. Army.  He married Barbara Ellen Richie on July 24, 1970 and they shared over 38 years of marriage together until her passing in 2008.  John enjoyed being outdoors, mowing grass, and hunting in his younger years.  He formerly trained his dogs to swim in competitive races for many years.  John also liked to watch wrestling and his favorite television show, American Pickers.  He loved animals and especially loved his dogs.  More than anything, John cherished spending time with all of his family.

John's family includes his daughter, Shannon R. Frye of Alexandria; granddaughter, Destiny Nicole Frye of Alexandria; brother, Art (wife Carol) Frye of Elwood; 2 great-grandchildren, Stella Mary-Ellizabeth Frye-Parry and Axle James Frye-Parry; sister-in-law, Betsy (husband Bud) Shipley of Elwood; and several nieces and nephews.  John was preceded in death by his parents; his wife in 2008; two brothers, Paige Frye and Larry Frye; and father and mother-in-law, Tom and Mary Richie.

A funeral celebrating John's life will be conducted at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, October 26, 2021 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home with Rev. Tim Becker of Main Street Wesleyan Church officiating.  Burial will take place in Forrestville Cemetery in rural Summitville with military honors by the U.S. Army and Elwood V.F.W.  Visitation for family and friends will be held from 12:00 to 2:00 pm on Tuesday prior to the funeral at the funeral home.  Health precautions for the safety of the family and all visitors are much appreciated.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society through the funeral home.  Online condolences and memories may be shared at copherfeslermay.com.