D. J. Fry

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

DJ Fry, age 83 of Oronogo, Missouri, passed away Tuesday June 28, 2022, at his home with family by his side.

DJ was born to DS and Sarah (Watkins) Fry in a small sawmill shack made of logs cut by the mill, which was owned and operated by his family in Robinson, Arkansas.

He was a devoted husband, a supportive father, a thoughtful friend, and everybody’s Uncle DJ. He was a storyteller, a problem solver, and the very best teacher.

Over the years, DJ was a troop leader for the Boy Scouts of America, a softball player and coach, and a cowboy poet and balladeer. He retired from Able Manufacturing after over 50 years with the company. He was an active member of the Missouri Cowboy Poets Association, as well as the Oronogo Cemetery Association.

He married Margaret Hailey on July 17, 1959, in Joplin, Missouri and she survives. He is also survived by one son, Rory Fry, Oronogo, Missouri; two daughters, Cindy Heath, Joplin, Missouri, Brenda Fry, Carl Junction, Missouri; three brothers, William Fry, Diamond, Missouri, Jerry Fry, Seneca, Missouri, James Fry, Illinois; four grandchildren, Jerrad Heath, Emily Mandzik, Jennifer Gandy, Sarah Wilkerson; two great grandchildren, Trinity Gandy, Grayson Heath; as well as numerous extended family and friends.

DJ was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Aaron Lee Fry; four brothers, Harold Fry, Kennith Fry, Paul Fry, Danny Fry, and one sister, Betty Jean Tyer.

Funeral services will be 2:00 pm Wednesday July 6, 2022, at Mason=Woodard Mortuary with Richard Dunlap and Ken Lorten officiating. Burial will follow at the Oronogo Cemetery. The family will receive friends 6:00-7:00 pm Tuesday at the mortuary.

Arrangements are under the direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory Joplin, Missouri.