James Ralph Friend

James R. Friend, a devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandfather, 78, of Benwood, WV passed away on March 6th, 2025 at home surrounded by his family after battling cancer twice. He leaves behind a lifetime of love and memories.

He was born February 17th, 1947 in Washington, PA to the late James G. Friend and Lillian (Miller) Friend. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Virginia “Ginny” Friend. Together, they built a close-knit family that includes their children, Michael (Shawna) Friend of Powhatan Point, OH, and Michele (Greg) Evans of McMechen, WV. He was a beloved grandfather to Christopher (Heather) Piekarski, Tyler (Brittany) Friend, Sara Friend, Angela (Nick) Wolfe, Maria Evans, and Grace Evans, and a great-grandfather to Daltan Friend, Camden Ashby, Layla Friend, and Gabriella Wolfe. He is also survived by his sister, Karen Murray, sisters-in-law, Mary Jo (Gary) Smith and Loretta DiCrease. He is survived by his nieces and nephew, Jody (Chris) Plumley, Melissa Smith, and Doug (Rachel) Murray in addition to several aunts, uncles, and cousins. He will be greatly missed by his dogs, Rocky and Allie.

James graduated from Trinity High School in 1966 and proudly served in the Army Reserves for seven years. James worked at Brockway Glass-Owens as a glassmaker/troubleshooter where he was able to travel the world, then as a truck driver for Fraley and Schilling. He was an active member of St. John’s Catholic Church in Benwood, WV and the St. John’s Men’s Group. He was also a member of the Blake’s Brothers American Legion Post 46. James loved to spend time with his family, enjoyed large family beach vacations, and was an avid hunter, bowler, and golfer. He spent countless hours on the sidelines cheering on his grandchildren, always their biggest fan. James was a lifelong Pittsburgh Sports fan, and never missed an opportunity to cheer for, or criticize, his favorite teams. He also loved spending time playing Nines and Fantasy Football with his family, games that brought plenty of laughter and friendly competition.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but his legacy of love for his family will live on. A Catholic Mass to celebrate his life will be held at St. John’s Catholic Church, 622 Main Street, Benwood, WV with Fr. Doney as celebrant on Saturday, March 22nd at 11 am. The family invites you to continue the celebration of his life immediately following at St. John’s Fellowship Hall for a luncheon. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family to assist with final expenses. Schuetz Funeral Home is assisting the family.

To leave a condolence visit www.schuetzfuneralhome.com