James Reynolds "Jim" Friel Jr.

1942 - 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of James R. Friel, Jr., on October 2, 2025 in Centreville, Maryland. A proud, lifelong resident of the Eastern Shore of Maryland, he was born on October 20, 1942.

Jim graduated from Mount St. Joseph High School in 1960 and went on to earn a degree in Economics from Villanova University in 1964. Following his graduation, he served in the National Guard for six years, receiving an Honorable Discharge in 1970 with the rank of Sergeant. In 1964, Jim joined the family business, entering both S.E.W. Friel Company and Friel Lumber. Over the years, he became a partner in both companies and held officer positions at Queenstown Wholesale and King Foods, displaying a lifelong commitment to business and community development. On April 8, 1967, Jim married his beloved wife, Mary Helen Urban. Together, they shared a joyful and devoted 58-year marriage. He was the loving and dedicated father of James (Jay) R. Friel III (wife, Gina), Darann W. Friel, and Robert U. Friel. Jim was also a proud grandfather to three grandsons: Samuel J.P. Friel, Jacob W. Friel, and Noah T.D. Friel, who brought him immense pride and happiness. Jim was preceded in death by his parents: James R. Friel Sr. and Mary M. Parks Friel; his aunts and uncles: S.E.W. Friel Jr., Margery Friel, Daniel D. Friel, and June Friel, Albert (Tally) Friel; and Emily Friel Owens; as well as by his siblings: Mary M. Friel Huber, and Pamela W. Friel Bernard. Jim was deeply committed to serving his community and held numerous leadership roles throughout his life. He served as Director and Chairman of the Board of the Queenstown Bank of Maryland and was a long-standing member of several civic, professional, and charitable organizations. A devoted Catholic, Jim was an active member of St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church in Queenstown, where he also served as Chairman of the St. Peter's Cemetery Board. His compassion extended into his work with the Queen Anne's Chapter of Hospice and as President of St. Martin's Ministries, reflecting his deep sense of service and care for others. Jim's professional affiliations were extensive. He served as President and Vice President of the Mid-Atlantic Food Processors Association, was involved with the National Food Processors Association, where he served as OSHA Chairman, and contributed his expertise on the State Board of Waterworks Certification. In 1981, he was named a Trustee of The Gunston School, underscoring his commitment to education and local youth. He also served on the board of the county chapter of the American Red Cross, including as Fund Drive Chairman, and was a member of the Centreville Junior Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, Jim played a role in local history and preservation efforts as a member of the Queen Anne's County Historical Society and the Queenstown Preservation Committee. He also supported local growth and innovation through his service on the Queen Anne's Economic Development Board. A proud Villanovan, Jim was a lifelong supporter of the Villanova Men's Basketball team and loved cheering them on. In his personal time, he especially enjoyed the companionship of his beloved dogs-Lad, Teal, and Buddy-who were a constant source of joy throughout his life. A viewing will be held at Fellows, Helfenbein, & Newman Funeral Home, Centreville on Thursday, October 9 from 4 to 6 pm. A mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church on Friday at 11:00 am. All friends and family are welcome.

The family gratefully requests that donations be made in Jim's memory to the:

Restoration fund for St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church of Queenstown

https://gofund.me/2275fccb6

St. Peter's Restoration Fund, 303 Chesterfield Ave, Centreville, MD 21617

Queenstown Fire Department Building Fund

Queenstown Vol Fire Co, PO Box 118, Queenstown MD 21658

Jim's unwavering positivity and resilience in the face of adversity were an inspiration to everyone he met. In his honor, the family requests that you perform an act of kindness in his memory. Jim truly was one of a kind. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, mentor, and friend. Jim was dedicated to his family and to his community. He will be remembered lovingly as a life well-lived; a genuine and humble soul with an enormous heart spreading his unending kindness, generosity, humor, wisdom, and strength. He will always be loved and forever, deeply missed. "'Well done, good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:23)