Dr. William A. Fry

Dr. William A. Fry, 76, of Fleming Island, passed into the presence of his Lord on Wednesday, May 6, 2009, surrounded by his loving family, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born December 2, 1932 in Greenville, OH, he was the son of Grace Moore Fry. He graduated from Nyack College (NY), Wheaton College (IL), and received his Ph.D. from Columbia University. He was a minister of the Christian & Missionary Alliance for ten years, but his true calling was teaching. He was professor of English literature at Nyack College for 15 years, and Taylor University (IN) for 20 years. He and Mrs. Fry shared many adventures overseas, leading numerous student and alumni trips all over the globe. He shared his gift with thousands of students and impacted many lives. He retired to Florida in 1998. Dr. Fry married Lura McGarvey, of DeLand, FL, on June 6, 1953, and they raised four daughters. Their family was the light of his life. His proudest achievement was planning and hosting their family reunions, where lasting memories were made. He was a devoted family patriarch. His endless humor, quick wit, and deeply loving heart will be sorely missed. Dr. Fry was a member of Pinewood Presbyterian Church, Middleburg. His strong faith and Christian walk made him a beloved teacher and friend. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, his daughters and grandchildren: Becky (Doug) Arters of Niwot, CO and children Jordan, Josh & Kylie; Debbie (Mark) Jackson of Fleming Island and children Mandi, Ali & Tom; Cindy (Keith) Wilkerson of Lanett, AL and children Connie & Bess; Kate (Steve) Hewitt of Grand Haven, MI and children Will, Cam & Drew; and great-grandsons Brady & Andrew Wood. Services will be held on Tuesday, May 19 at Pinewood Presbyterian Church, at 7:00 p.m. Memorial gifts may be sent to Taylor University, Upland, IN or Pinewood Presbyterian Church. Please sign the family’s online register book at www.broadusraines.com. Cremation arrangements are under the care of Broadus-Raines Funeral Home, 501 Spring St., Green Cove Springs, FL (904) 284-4000.