At 6:45 p.m. on Nov. 27, 2025, our sweet daddy, John Timothy (Tim) Frye, slipped peacefully from this earthly home with his daughters by his side. We held his hands, whispered our love, and felt the quiet strength of the man who had cared for us our entire lives.
Born Dec. 19, 1943, Daddy entered the world as a miracle—premature and sent home with little hope of survival. But God, Daddy, and his father had other plans. That early fight became the foundation of a long, humble, and beautiful life.
He is preceded in death by his parents Walter Bernard Frye and Mary Francis Frost Frye; his brother Walter Bernard Frye Jr.; former wife of 24 years Judith Ann Fleenor; and his beloved dog Sugar. He is survived by his children Deborah Frye Reedy (Rodney), Mary Grace Frye Heath, and John Timothy Frye II; grandchildren Timothy Justin Frye (Yvonne), Christopher Thomas Martin (Emily), Arabella Heath, Jacob Sebastian and Marc Curtis Reedy; great-grandchildren Olivia Grace, Jaxon and Jake Martin; and many extended family members and friends who loved him dearly.
Daddy worked for 43 years at the Radford Army Ammunition Plant, a steady provider whose quiet dependability shaped the lives of his children. In his earlier years, he loved hunting with his father, brother, and son, and he enjoyed riding motorcycles—simple joys that reflected his love of nature, freedom, and family. Throughout his life he found peace in the outdoors: feeding birds, rabbits, and deer, walking at the park with Sugar and taking in the gentle beauty around him.
Daddy also loved the night sky. On clear evenings he searched for Orion’s Belt—the “three stars in a row”—where he told us he made wishes for his three children. Because of him, whenever we look up at the moon and stars, we feel the comfort of his presence, as if his love still shimmers there.
In his final evening, God gave us a moment we will hold forever. As the sun set behind his hospital window, thousands of birds filled the sky, dancing in a breathtaking display. For 15 sacred minutes we whispered every detail into Daddy’s ear, believing heaven was gently guiding him home.
Daddy lived simply, loved deeply, and moved through this world with quiet grace. We will miss him more than words can capture.
Lord, receive our daddy into Your eternal embrace. Grant him peace, light, and rest, and grant us strength as we move forward without his earthly presence.
A private ceremony will be held to honor his precious life.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Humane Society of the New River Valley, the Radford Animal Shelter, or any animal-welfare organization.
Special thanks to the Emergency Department, Progressive Care Team, Palliative Care Team, doctors, nurses, CNAs, patient services, and the entire staff at Carilion New River Valley for their compassionate care.
The family of John Frye is in the care of Mullins Funeral Home & Crematory in Radford.
