Leighton "Rusty" Russell Frye

Rusty, as everyone knew him, was born to Katie Lee Maness and Joseph Harold Frye on September 6, 1945 in Pinehurst, North Carolina. He grew up in Salisbury, NC as the youngest of four siblings, Janet, Joseph Jr., and Shirley. After graduating high school, he moved to Newport News, Virginia to attend a shipbuilding apprenticeship school. After graduation he enlisted in the United States Navy and served in Vietnam. It was in 1969 that Rusty had his first son, Paul Frye. After the Navy, his work took him to Washington, DC, Virginia, and South Carolina prior to moving to Irvine, CA. It was in Irvine, working for Fluor Corporation that he met his wife, Sharon. They were married in 1984 in San Diego County. Rusty’s work with Fluor took them to London, England in the mid 80’s where they treasured their ability to travel and experience Europe. After returning to the states, Rusty and Sharon purchased a fledgling carpet business called Interior Specialists that became their life’s work. In 1992, while living in Carlsbad, Rusty and Sharon welcomed their first son together, Daniel Frye. They soon moved to Rancho Santa Fe.

Over the years, Rusty was very active in the San Diego philanthropic community, serving on the board of United Cerebral Palsy, The Legacy, and donating his time and resources to countless other charities. He and Sharon were members of The Village Community Presbyterian Church in Rancho Santa Fe. It was there that Rusty held numerous leadership positions over the years. In his final leadership position at the church, he took it upon himself to revitalize and expand the Church’s fundraising platform, ensuring the Church’s ministry and philanthropic capabilities would thrive for years to come.

Rusty was an avid golfer, playing all over the country and enjoying countless rounds and trips with his friends over the years. He introduced his son Dan to the game. Dan grew to enjoy it just as much, probably beginning to best Rusty in their matches sooner than Rusty would have liked. The family enjoyed many trips together, La Quinta, CA, Kiawah Island, SC and the Bahamas becoming favorite getaway destinations over the years.

Rusty and Dan started a real estate development business together in 2016. The two worked together for the remainder of Rusty’s career. He is survived by his wife, Sharon, his son Paul (Meggan), and his son Dan.

Services will be held on Saturday, November 12th at 10:00am at The Village Church in Rancho Santa Fe, 6225 Paseo Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067, with a reception to follow at the Church. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Rusty’s memory to The Village Community Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 704, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067