Rick Frye Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by John M. Ireland & Son Funeral Home and Chapel on Sep. 1, 2025.
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Donald Richard Frye-lovingly known as Rick-passed from this life on August 29, 2025, in
Oklahoma City at the age of 67. Born on March 28, 1958, in Lexington, South Carolina, Rick
grew up there before moving to Oklahoma in 1980. It was there that fate brought him together
with the love of his life, Penny. They married on March 4, 1983, and shared 42 beautiful years
filled with laughter, love, and countless memories.
Rick's first love was his Lord and Savior, followed closely by Penny and their family.
He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.
Rick was truly a light in this world. Known for his fun-loving spirit, quick wit, and playful
orneriness, he had a gift for making people laugh and a heart that welcomed everyone as
family. He never met a stranger-so much so that at the ballparks, he became known as "Papa
Rick."
Known for his generous heart, Rick often went out of his way to help others. One of his favorite
roles was playing Santa Claus during the holidays, bringing smiles and magic to children and
adults alike.
Rick loved fishing-anywhere he could, as he'd like to say, "wet a hook"- where he found
peace and joy on the water. If he wasn't fishing or cheering on his grandkids at their games, you
might find him enjoying the simple pleasures in life like taking drives around the lake, relaxing
in his recliner watching his favorite westerns; Bonanza and Gunsmoke in particular, enjoying a
meal at Taste of China or indulging on chicken gizzard from Chicken Express.
Rick is survived by his mother, Mamie Ritter; his beloved wife, Penny; his children-Jimmie Frye
and wife Christina, and Coryl Martinez and husband Jorge; and his grandchildren-Corrina,
Keira, and JezMariah Frye, and Jovani and Adelina Martinez, as well as TK Harrison, who he
loved as one of his own. He is also survived by his siblings-Janie Jeffcoat, Nancy Smith, Ann
and husband Ty Hanley, and Anthony and Becky Frye-along with his brothers and sisters-in love-Tim and Daisy Wall, Marsha Murphy, Tony and Thuong Wall, and Jarrod and Amber Scott.
He was a beloved uncle to his many nieces and nephews who he loved dearly-especially those
who know the secret of the lucky penny-and a friend to so many: former coworkers, fishing
buddies, and countless families he met at the ballparks.
Rick was preceded in death by his father, James Frye; his older brother, Jimmy; his father-in-law
and mother-in-law, Jimmie "Pop" and Terry Wall; his brothers-in-love John, Odom, and Ricky;
and his nephew Xander Mia.
Rick touched countless lives with his humor, kindness, and unwavering faith. His passing leaves
a hole in our hearts that can never be filled, but we take comfort knowing his faith has carried
him home. His memory will live on in every story, every smile, and every moment we choose
joy.
Rest easy, Rick-you will be missed beyond measure but never forgotten.