Joe Frye

On March 5, 2025, Joseph Michael Frye of Shelby, Ohio, surrounded by his loving family passed away after a long illness.  He was preceded in death by his father, Herbert Frye, his mother, Mary (Stump) Frye, his brother William (Mary Alice) Davis and a son Grant Smith.

Joe was born August 31st, 1948, in Crestline, Ohio. He attended Dayton University and Graduated with a bachelor’s degree from The Ohio State University.  He worked as a Chemical Stripper and Printer for Carton Services in Shelby for over 20 years.

On June 30th, 1984, Joe married the love of his life, Rita in Shelby.  He was a big Browns and Buckeyes fan.  Joe was an avid wood worker and a meticulous carpenter.

Joe always had a smile and friendly words for everyone.  His cheerful personality always lit up every room he entered.  He will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years Rita (York) Frye of Shelby, Ohio, son Robert (Angela) Smith of Bellville, Ohio, his sisters; Rita Frye of Otway, Jane Frye (Michael Hause) of Pickerington, Ohio, niece Maureen Jones (Mark Haake), nephew Michael (Heather) David of Dublin, Ohio, great nephews; Brayden Davis, Erik Davis, great niece Victoria (Tori) Davis.  Three granddaughters; Tarin (Kellin) Sturts of Ontario, Ohio, Tiffany (Brian) Adkins of Mansfield, Ohio and Taylor (Vince) Baer of Ontario, Ohio and five great granddaughters; Erika, Lillie, Sofia, Aubri and Sophie.

A Catholic mass will take place on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 10:30 am at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 331 N. Thoman St., Crestline. Graveside services will be Friday, March 14, 2025, at 4:00 pm in York Family Cemetery, Swigart Road, Bellville, Ohio 44813.

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