Gary Lee Friel
Gary Lee Friel, devoted husband, cherished father and grandfather, and friend to all, went to be with his Heavenly Father on March 25, 2026, at the age of 82.
He was preceded in death by his father, Oscar R. Friel; mother, Mamie Pauline “Polly” Friel; brothers, William (Bill) Friel, Edward (Eddie) Friel, and Darrell (Chico) Friel; and sister, Carolyn Swecker.
Gary graduated from Marlinton High School with the Class of 1961. He entered the United States Navy in 1964, and in 1967 his courage was forged in fire aboard the USS Forrestal. After surviving the historic and devastating explosion at sea, Gary returned home with a profound appreciation for every sunrise—a perspective that shaped the next 59 years of his life.
Upon returning to Marlinton, Gary found his greatest treasure, Carmen Lucille “Lucy” Friel. The couple soon moved to Ohio, where Gary worked for Ford Motor Company. Seeking a new challenge, he later relocated to Florida and began a successful career with Security Life of Georgia, quickly rising to the role of District Manager. In the early 1980s, Gary moved to the Roanoke area to be closer to his aging parents. There, he built a life defined by hard work and genuine connection, famously selling insurance door-to-door and leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met.
Gary was the proud father of two daughters who were his absolute pride and joy: Stacie Newton (Shannon) and Stephanie Daughtridge (Ty). While Gary often spoke of his girls as his greatest legacy, they might argue that his true masterpieces were his grandchildren. Darson, Mathias, and McKinley were his most precious treasures, and “Pap” was a title he wore with pride. He is also survived by his sisters, Phyllis Tumblin and Kay Wise.
Gary’s life was guided by an unwavering compass—his faith. While he loved the salt air of a cruise ship, the quiet patience of a fishing pier, and the simple joy of the outdoors, his true north was always his Lord and Savior. His infectious gratitude and steady spirit touched everyone who knew him.
A man of deep devotion, Gary spent Saturday mornings and Monday nights faithfully serving with the Gideons, and every Sunday, he could be found leading Sunday school. When he wasn’t being the world’s most enthusiastic grandfather, Gary could be found chasing the perfect golf swing, working out at the gym, or walking his beloved dog, Rosie. He especially loved spending time outdoors tending to his summer garden, relaxing by the pool, and enjoying long beach walks along the water’s edge.
Gary taught us the enduring values of hard work, kindness, and family, leaving an indelible mark on our lives. He lived with a heart full of praise and a gratitude that never wavered.
To honor his life, we encourage all who loved him to live with the same kindness, laughter, and infectious gratitude he brought into this world.
We will hold him in our hearts always.
The family will receive friends for a visitation on Saturday April 4th, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00PM at Daleville Baptist Church. A celebration of Life will follow at 2:00 PM at Daleville Baptist Church, 375 Orchard Dr, Daleville, VA.
To honor Gary’s legacy of faith and service, in lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Gideons International or Isaiah 117 House (Roanoke).
• Gideons International: BOTETOURT CAMP P.O. BOX 135 Daleville, VA 24083
• Isaiah 117 House (Roanoke): 1705 State Line Rd, Elizabethton, TN 37643 [memo line: Roanoke]
