Edward Ray Friel

Edward Ray Friel, 80 years of age, and a resident of South Amherst, passed away March 30, 2022, at his home following a lengthy illness.

Ed was born December 7,1941, in Bergoo, WV, and was raised and lived in W.VA until entering the service. South Amherst has been his home for the last 54 years. 

Ed was a veteran of the United States Army serving with the 101st Airborne. He belonged to the First United Methodist Church in South Amherst.  Ed was employed as an electronic repairman at USS Kobe in Lorain for thirty years before retiring. Outside of work, he enjoyed traveling and camping, wintering in Florida, fishing and hunting. He also loved being a “picker” of all things useful and making a good deal down at Jamie’s Flea Market. His greatest joy in life, however, was his family and family gatherings. 

Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Jolene Friel (nee: Perry); his children, Timothy Ray Friel of Melrose, FL, Tonya (Jeffrey) Jones of Green, Ohio, Trisha (Gregory) Summers of Wakeman, and Tami Friel of New London; fourteen grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; his brother, Gary Lee (Lucille) Friel of Daleville, VA; and his sisters, Phyllis Ann Tumblin of Morgantown, WV and Deloris “Kay” Wise of Wheeling, WV.

He was preceded in death by his grandson, Aaron Friel; his brothers, William J. Friel and Darrel R. Friel; his sister, Carolyn G. Swecker; and his parents, Oscar R. and Mamie P. Friel (nee: Swecker).

Public Visitation will be held Monday, April 4, 2022, from 3:00 p.m. until the time of the funeral service at 5:00 p.m. at Hempel Funeral Home Amherst. Rebroadcasting of services will be available at www.hempelfuneralhome.com. The Rev. Joshua Bender of South Amherst First United Methodist Church will officiate.  

The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to First United Methodist Church of South Amherst,  201 W Main St, South Amherst, OH 44001 or to the American Cancer Society of Cleveland, 10501 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106 .

Please visit the funeral home's website to share a memory and sign the guest register, www.hempelfuneralhome.com.

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