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JOHN ‘JACK’ FRYER JR.

John “Jack” Fryer Jr., of Gloucester, passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 10, 2015 at Riverside Walter Reed Hospital.

Jack was born in Lisburn, Ireland, on July 2, 1937. When he was nine years old, his father relocated his family of six children to the United States where his father resided. The family came to the U.S. on the US Washington, landed in New York and proceeded down through Pennsylvania, Cape Charles and Hampton, where they reached their destination. Their uncle picked them up and took them to Hilton Village in Newport News, where they resided until Mr. Fryer found accommodations for them.

Jack’s career path led him to work at VEPCO (now Dominion) after graduating from high school. After his daughter was born, he applied for and was accepted to the Apprentice School at NASA Langley. Jack worked in various positions at NASA beginning as an Engineering Technician and ending as an Experimental Mechanical Technician in a supervisory position. During his 34 years at NASA Jack was involved in many projects including one at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland where they tested “futuristic” laser usage.

After retiring from NASA, Jack relocated to Naples, Fla. He loved the weather there and many of his friends had relocated as well. He became a “snow bunny” traveling back and forth to Gloucester and Naples.

Jack was preceded in death by his father, John Fryer Sr., and stepmother, Mary; his brother, Sammy (Harriett); sisters, Mimi, Phyllis (Mike) and Gladys (Bobby). 

He is survived by his beloved daughter, Edie Bell; three grandsons, Michael and Christopher Keller and Taylor Bell; great-grandson, Blake Keller; his sister, Evelyn Fish; nine nieces, and five nephews. 

Jack wished to thank all his friends who were in constant contact with him while he went through his health issues. A special thanks also to Teresa Hogge, Betsy Taylor and Jennifer Hutchinson who were Jack’s hospice nurses and he treasured their attention.

A memorial service conducted by the Rev. Bud Goude was held at 2 p.m. Monday, June 15, 2015, at Hogg Funeral Home, Gloucester Point.

In his memory, the family requests contributions to Riverside Walter Reed Hospice, 7358 Main Street, Gloucester, Va. 23061.

Family and friends may share condolences and memories at www.hoggfh.com.