Derrick O'Neal Frye

Derrick O'Neal Frye was born on March 12, 1955 in Fort Braggs, North Carolina. He was the first child born to the union of the late Andrew J. Frye, Jr. and Barbara Brandenberg Frye. He was educated in the St. Louis City and University City public school systems. After completing high school, Dr. Frye enlisted in the United States Navy and earned his certification as a physician's assistant. Dr. Frye met and married Phyllis E. Washington and God blessed them with two beautiful children, Chloe' and Andrew. After completing his military tour of duty, he attended Florissant Valley Junior College and received an Associate Degree in Science. He continued his education and received his Bachelor of Science Degree from Howard University. Having a passion for education and service to his community, he continued his training at Howard University College of Dentistry. In 1990, he was awarded the Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree and completed his general residency program at Southern Illinois School of Dentistry. In 1999, Dr. Frye received his certification in orthodontics from the Academy of GP Orthodontics in Clarendon Hills, Illinois. Dr. Frye established his practice, The Frye Dental Group, in St. Louis. He was a visionary and co-founder of "Gateway to Oral Health", a foundation established to provide annual preventive and restorative health care to thousands of children across the St. Louis area. Dr. Fry was president of the mound City Dental Society in University City, MO. He was also a former member of 100 Black Men of America. His humanitarian spirit led him along with 30 of his colleagues to provide dental service in underdeveloped countries, such as Honduras, during the summer for several years. Dr. Frye accepted Christ and exemplified Christian love for his fellow man throughout his life. He was a devoted member of the Abundant Life Fellowship Church under the leadership of Bishop Matthew Ferguson. He served faithfully in many capacities, volunteering in the Ushers ministry, the Health & Nutrition Ministry and Men's Fellowship. Dr. Frye served as Bishop Ferguson's personal attendant. His jovial spirit, pleasant demeanor and generous contributions were attributes of his character. Dr. Frye departed this earthly life on April 17, 2009 at St. Louis University Hospital. The memories of his life will be cherished by his precious family: a devoted wife, Phyllis; daughter, Chloe'; son, Andrew; grandson, DeShaun; a loving mother, Barbara Brandenberg Frye; supportive brother, Vincent (Rachele) Frye; sister, Jean Perry; devoted aunts, Mozel Roper, Jeanette Brandenberg, Hattie Frye; three uncles, James (Louise) Frye, Willie Frye, Dr. Hardy (Rosette) Frye; one great aunt; one great uncle; god-brother, Charles Hamilton; one brother-in-law; four sisters-in-law; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Dr. Frye will truly be missed by his family, friends, church, patients and the entire community of st. Louis. To send a lasting tribute or condolences to the Frye family, please sign the Online Guestbook below. Click "Sign Guestbook".