Russell William Friend, III

russell friend, iii

August 12, 1961 ~ February 4, 2020

Born in: Dayton, OH
Resided in: Hendersonville, NC

Russell William Friend, III, 58, of Hendersonville, went home to be with the Lord on February 4, 2020.

A native of Dayton, Ohio, he was a son of Shirley Stutz Friend and of the late Russell William Friend Jr.

In addition to his mother, Russell is survived by his high school sweetheart and loving wife of 41 years, Patricia Farnham Friend; loving children, Rebekah Vaught (Christopher), Russell Friend and Sarah Friend; two grandchildren who adored their grandpa, Everett and Oliver; one sister, Jenny Buchanan (Randy); one brother, Ken Friend (Annelie), as well as many good friends and neighbors.

Russell served in the US Air Force for 20 years, retiring as a Tech Sergeant. He went on to work for the past several years at Continental, becoming a well respected supervisor. He attended Fruitland Baptist Church, where he felt on fire for the Lord. He was an ordained Deacon and a strong Christian man.

He was a wonderful and remarkable man who never met a stranger and would do anything for anyone, especially his family. He was a hard working man who made sure that all others around him were taken care of. Russell was a doting grandfather and awesome family man who has left us way too soon.

A Celebration of his life will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, February 8 in the Chapel of Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian with Pastor Craig Stepp officiating. His family will receive friends at the funeral home on Saturday for one hour prior to the service.

Flowers are appreciated, but for those who choose, memorial donations may be made to either the American Diabetes Association (www.diabetes.org) or to the American Heart Association (www.heart.org).

Services

Celebration of Life: February 8, 2020 3:00 pm

Room: Chapel

Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian
72 Long Shoals Road
Arden, NC 28704

(828)687-3530
http://www.grocefuneralhome.com

Visitation: February 8, 2020 2:00 pm - March 28, 2024 3:00 pm

Room: Chapel

Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian
72 Long Shoals Road
Arden, NC 28704

(828)687-3530
http://www.grocefuneralhome.com

Air Force Veteran

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Charities

The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in Russell William Friend, III 's name.

American Diabetes Association

PO Box 15829
Arlington, VA 22215

Visit the website

American Heart Association


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Memories Timeline

Guestbook

  1. Sending my deepest sympathy to Russell’s family. I am praying for peace and comfort during this difficult time.

  2. So sorry to hear this. I know that he is celebrating life with Jesus and Russell Jr. I can imagine the laughter, the singing and the praises being enjoyed. Our family will keep our “Friends” in prayer.

  3. Patty I am at a loss for words, after just going through this myself I hold you close to my heart at this sad time. Russ was a great guy who will be missed by many mostly you.
    Stay strong my friend ❤️

  4. Jerry and I send our deepest sympathy to your family – Our prayer is that God will embrace each of you with His love during this difficult time. You are in our prayers. Jerry and Judith Nance, Sanford NC

  5. Patti & family, think of you all the time. Do wish you’d respond to family and let bygones be bygones. I do care and love you. So sorry for your loss, Russ was a wonderful young man. Love always, Jo

  6. Patti & Familyj, so sorry to hear the sad news. Russ was a great guy; do wish you’d find forgiveness in your heart and keep in touch, I do care. Miss & love you. Your eldest sister, Jo.

  7. Patti and Family, was shocked to receive the news of Russ’ passing, he was such a nice man. My thoughts and prayers go out to you & yours. Do wish you’d get in touch, I do miss & love you. Your eldest sister, Jo


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