George Roosevelt Friend

MORNING OF LIFE-“Bubba”, or “Chick” as he was affectionately known was born on September 11, 1930 to the late Willie Giles Friend Randall and George Washington Friend. George was reared in Amelia, Virginia, where he was educated by the Amelia County Public School system. He graduated from Russell Grove High school in 1950 and enlisted in the United States Army, where he served for two years. Georges’ love of automotive repair led him to continue his education at Virginia State University, where he received an Auto Mechanic Certificate. He often reminisced about his days at Russell Grove and Virginia State, where he developed several lasting friendships and became a skilled player of horseshoes.SPIRITUAL JOURNEY-George accepted Christ as his personal Savior at an early age and joined the Mt. Level Baptist Church. His love of Christ and thirst for knowledge, led him to regularly attend Church School and propelled him to serve in the Ushers’s Ministry, later becoming the President of the Youth Usher Board. In addition, he was a charter member of the Junior Choir and the Young Men’s Club, which was later renamed the Brotherhood Ministry. As an adult, George joined the Male Chorus, where he sang God’s praise. In 1966, he was ordained as a Deacon and Trustee serving faithfully until his health began to fail. He was appointed Chairman of the Deacons Ministry in 1977, a poistion he held for 23 years. During his tenure when trials arose he can be remembered beseeching the Lord saying, “God knows” I need His help. With the Lord’s blessings and his leadership, the Mt. Level Baptist Church grew mightly both physically and spiritually. His commitment to God led to his affiliation with the Ministers and Diaconate Conference of Amelia, Chesterfield & Powhatan, and The Ebenezer Baptist Association. NOONDAY OF LIFE-George was married to the love of his life, Mary Givens and they were blessed to share 44 years together. Their union was blessed with two loving sons, George Jr., and Darryl. Chick’s love of cars led to a career as an auto mechanic. He was employed by Richmond Ford, Ted Filler Motor Company and the City of Richmond. He retired form the City of Richmond in 1997 and then returned to work for the city part-time. When he was not working, George could often be found talking and laughing with friends or neighbors. His concern for the safety of his neighbors led to his work with his neighborhood watch, the Concerned Citizens of the 3400 Block of Montrose Avenue. His neighbors will especially remember him during thir Annual Fourth of July Celebration as he assisted in preparing the street with the energy and excitement of a child.AT MIDNIGHT- George was preceded in death by his sister, Sallie Friend Craig. After several months of illness, George Friend, sr. went home to receive his rewards. He fought a good fight, kept his faith, and finished his course. Sleep on husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend. A much deserved rest now awaits you. You will truly be missed but we thank God for blessing our lives with you. You are a gem. His memory will be cherished by his devoted wife, Mary; two sons, George Jr. (Angela) and Darryl; two grandchildren, Jakeel Townsend and Jourdyn Friend; mother-in-law, Alice Givens;one brother, Wilson Friend Sr. (Margie); one sister, Willie Watson (Lonzzie); seven brothers-in-law, eight sisters-in-law, ans host of nieces, nephews, cousin and friends.

Tributes

George Roosevelt Friend

September 11, 1930 - July 21, 2006