Final Salute

William Harmon Frier passed away Nov. 22, just 25 days shy of his 102nd birthday. He was a “super-ager” in every way, staying mentally sharp until his final days and physically independent until recent months.

Born Dec. 16, 1922 in Savannah, Ga., Bill grew up during the Depression, the oldest (and only) son, with four sisters and a doting mother. He fought in World War II in the Pacific Theater, earning two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star with oak leaf cluster.

He returned to a foundry job in Portsmouth in 1946 but realized quickly that he wanted something more. So, he enrolled at the University of Virginia under the GI Bill, received his civil engineering degree in June 1950 and married his sweetheart, Ruby Chapman, that same month.

Working first for the Army Corps of Engineers and then with the Navy Civil Engineer Corps, Bill traveled to such unlikely places as Cuba, Ireland and Antarctica during his working years. His career came to an abrupt end in 1976, however, when a hearing disability, stemming from his time in the Army, forced him into early retirement.

As someone whose retirement years far outnumbered his working ones, Bill kept busy, building a new house, flipping several others and traveling around the country with Ruby in one of the many RVs he bought and tinkered with. Life in retirement was truly good.

Bill was a quiet man who loved nothing better than tackling a good challenge, whether it was a home improvement project, computer glitch or crossword puzzle. True to the engineering stereotype, he always had a pen and notepad tucked into his front pocket. Bill also loved playing cards – bridge was his favorite. And he couldn’t resist the lure of slot machines, both real and virtual!

Bill is survived by his daughters, Nancy Crites (George) and Joyce Hearn (David); grandchildren Justin Crites (Erin), Jessica Crites Carrillo (Manny) and Blake Hearn (Aubrey); seven great-grandchildren; his sister Helen Compton; special friend Ramona Forte; and a host of nieces and nephews.

The family sends heartfelt thanks to Bill’s Marian Manor “family” – both staff and residents – whose love and support are appreciated beyond words. Many thanks, as well, to the caring hospice team at Westminster Canterbury At Home. Please visit Bill’s memorial at www.nationalcremation.com