Denny Friend

(From Parker Mortuary)

Denny Friend, 65, of Joplin, passed away on March 22, 2025 at home after battling cancer.

He was born on November 5, 1959 in Reading, England to Jean (Baily) Friend and Dewey Friend. He moved to the U.S. at the age of 5. He was a lifelong resident of Joplin/ Carl Junction area. He graduated from Carl Junction High School. He worked several jobs from drywall, roofing, and truck driving. Denny loved restoring his truck with his grandson. He enjoyed showing that truck in local car cruises. He was big in Lamar Cruise Nights and Car Buddies cruise nights.

On July 28, 1978 he was united in marriage to Debbie Snyder at Big Spring Park in Neosho and she survives. He is also survived by 3 children, Melanie (Mike) Patterson of Joplin, Chris of Joplin, and Matthew (Nikkie) of Joplin. Eight grandchildren, Dennis, Sam, Arian, Elliott, Logan, Averi, and Kaiden. One great granddaughter, Ocean Anne. He is also survived by five siblings, Ricky Friend, Tracy Anderson, Jerry Friend, all of Carl Junction, Lisa Friend of Joplin and Gary Friend.

He is preceded in death by his parents and one sister.

Memorial Services will be held on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. at Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary in Joplin, MO. He will be cremated and family will be placing him in his final resting place at a later time.

Arrangements are made under the direction of Parker Mortuary.