Kenneth Merrill Frye

Retired elementary school principal Kenneth Frye’s legacy did not come to an end with his death. Kenneth passed away on February 11, 2021 at the age of 71 after a courageous battle with COVID, surrounded by loved ones who will continue to honor his legacy by serving others the way that he taught them to do.

He was born to Carl and Iola (Shelley) Frye on August 20, 1949 in Mullins, SC. After graduating from Aynor High School, he received his undergraduate degree from Baptist College and Master of Education from The University of South Carolina. He married the love of his life, Shelby (Martin) Frye, and enjoyed 51 years with her. Together, they had two sons: Eric and Keith.

After two years of teaching at Raines Centenary High School, Kenneth went on to serve as principal at Midland Elementary School and Aynor Elementary School. He took great pride in the teachers and staff that he worked alongside as he shared his passion for learning with thousands of children over the years.

Investing his life into people gave great joy to Kenneth. He taught Sunday School at Aynor United Methodist Church for over 40 years. He influenced his community through his business Cars to Go, as a member of Aynor United Methodist Church, developing Michael Morris Graham Little League Park, and through his hobby of carpentry. His love for people was evident and he made many strangers into friends.

Kenneth’s “happy place” was anywhere with his wife, sons, grandsons, and dog, Sadie. He enjoyed even more moments with his boys, spending the last four years in Alabama. He is survived by his wife, Shelby (Chelsea, AL); sons, Eric (Chelsea, AL) and Keith (Fairhope, AL); daughters-in-law, Jodie (Eric) and Kelley (Keith); six grandsons, Garrett (19), Austin (19), Preston (14), Elijah (9), Jude (7), and Isaac (5); sister, Lynn Frye Jordan (Galivants Ferry, SC); and many dear brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews. They will always remember his mischievous smile, many jokes, big heart, belly laugh, alligator tears, hard work, and dedication to doing things well.

A celebration of life service is scheduled for 10 a.m. CT on Tuesday, February 16, 2021 at Double Oak Community Church (Chelsea Campus) located at 101 Chelsea Park Drive, Chelsea, AL 35043. For family and friends in South Carolina, there will be a live stream of the service held at The Blessed Barn (3500 Nobles Farm Rd., Aynor 29511). The ceremony will be broadcast via Facebook Live for those who are unable to attend one of these locations.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Kenneth Frye Memorial Fund to purchase supplies for Midland Elementary School and Aynor Elementary School classrooms in 2021.