Roy Franklin Friend

Roy Franklin Friend, of Woodbridge, Virginia, passed away peacefully on April 24, 2025, at Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. Roy was born on October 8, 1943, in Cumberland, Maryland, to Floyd Friend and Regina Moore. He later moved to Baltimore, where he would begin a journey marked by hard work, deep patriotism, and an unwavering devotion to family and friends. Roy proudly served his country after being drafted into the Army on April 6, 1965. He spent 13 months in Vietnam as part of the Army Artillery Branch, then completed his active duty with the 2nd Armor Division at Fort Hood, Texas. He was awarded the Purple Heart, Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Sharpshooter (Rifle) Medal. After receiving an Honorable Discharge in 1967, he continued to serve in the Army Reserves until 1971. Following his military service, Roy built a long and respected career with Fairlane Inc., beginning as a head bowling mechanic and later becoming the East Coast Supervisor for ten bowling centers. After 25 years, he retired — but not for long. Roy began a second career with Home Depot, working at the first store to open in Virginia, where he stayed until his final retirement in 2021. Above all his accomplishments, Roy’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He was the steady foundation for generations — a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who led with love, kindness, and patience. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and there was nothing he wouldn’t do for them. Whether it was cheering them on, offering advice, fixing something with his skilled hands, or simply listening, Roy made sure each of them knew they were deeply loved and cherished. Roy had an incredible gift for conversation, able to strike up a heartfelt chat with anyone, anywhere, leaving everyone he met a little happier than before. His laughter, patience, and deep-rooted kindness brought light to every room he entered. Roy is survived by his devoted wife of 51 years, Sandy; his three children, Pamela Friend of Woodbridge, VA, Andrew Friend (Danielle) of Fredericksburg, VA, and Nicole Dunkle (Michael) of Ohio; ten beloved grandchildren — Andre, Kyliee, McKenzie, Alex, Hazel, Gracie, June, Allie, Chris, and Scott — and four cherished great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his faithful dog and best friend, Sammy. The family will receive visitors Wednesday, May 7, 2025 from 4-5pm and the service is from 5-6pm at Miller Funeral Home, 3200 Golansky Blvd, Woodbridge, VA. Interment will be held Monday, May 12, 2025 at 2pm at National Memorial Cemetery at Quantico. Roy’s legacy of love, service, and joy will continue to live on through the family he so deeply cherished and the countless lives he touched along the way.

Tributes

Roy Franklin Friend

April 24, 2025