Robert L. "Bob" Friley

With his family at his side, Robert "Bob" L. Friley, 76, of Beards Fork, WV died in his sleep on Tuesday, October 06, 2009 at his home. Born July 05, 1933 at Beards Fork, WV he was the son of the late Perry Francis "Pop" and Thelma Maxine Gilbert Friley. After graduating from Montgomery High School at age 17, Bob joined the US Navy and proudly served his country during the Korean War as a Petty Office on the aircraft carrier, USS Kearsarge. While in the Navy he attended the Aviation Electrical and Fire Control School. This started a lifelong interest in fire-fighting and electrical work, which helped prepare him for employment as an electrician in the coal mines and nuclear power plants throughout the south. He was retired from Central Appalachian Coal Company. Bob met the love of his life, Mary Lou Lang in 1957. Last summer they were honored with a 50th anniversary celebration surrounded by family and friends. Being of service to his community, Mr. Friley served as treasurer of the Black Lung Association of Fayette County, board member of the Beards Fork Community Church, member of the U.M.W.A. and was a former board member of the Southern Appalachian Labor School. He was a member of Oak Hill Lodge No 120 A.F. and A.M. and was a founding member and first Assistant Chief of the Loup Creek Volunteer Fire Department. Survivors include his wife, Mary Lou Lang Friley; two daughters, Sheilah Vied and husband, Joseph and Pam Brown and husband, Dan; two sons, Greg Friley and wife, Darla and Jonathan Friley; six grandchildren, Ryan Henning and wife, Stephanie, Nikki Friley, Derek Banks, Jennifer Brown, Dane Friley, Kyle Friley and wife, Kayla; three great grandchildren, Adrianna Friley, Kiauna Banks and Grace Friley; three brothers, Michael Friley and wife, Jean, Richard Friley and wife, Kay and David Friley and wife, Donna and one sister, Paula Johnston and husband, Paul. Graveside rites and committal services will be on Saturday, October 10, 2009 at 1:00 P.M. at Montgomery Memorial Park Mausoleum in London with Rev. Phyllis Bowling officiating. Burial will follow. Visitation will be held at Tyree Funeral Home on Friday, October 9, 2009 from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM. Dan Brown, Derek Banks, Dane Friley, Joe Vied, Ryan Henning and Kyle Friley will serve as pallbearers. In lieu of flowers donations of sympathy may be made to the Fayette County Black Lung Association, Beards Fork Community Church or the Hubbard Hospice House. Online condolences may be sent at www.tyreefuneralhome.com Arrangements by Tyree Funeral Home, Oak Hill, WV