Mr. Robert Lee Fries, Sr. was born on February 1, 1941 to the late Nellie Martin Fries Jennings. He went home went to be with the Lord on February 18, 2019 at his home after battling a long period of illness, surrounded by his loving family.

Mr. Fries was educated in the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County schools and attended Paisley High School. He began his employment with the Winston-Salem Housing Authority. After many years of dedicated work, Mr. Fries retired as the Maintenance Supervisor with 30 years of service to the community in which he loved.

Mr. Fries showed his love for his community in many ways. He served as chaperon for the YWCA Marching Angels and the Marching 100's. He traveled with those groups throughout the North and South Carolinas and Virginia. They participated in various parades and other functions, which included the grand re-opening of the Belk Store at Hanes Mall. Mr. Fries loved to sing and was known for singing wherever he went.

Mr. Fries was raised from an early age in the Ephesus SDA Church family where he served as a member of the Deacon Board; participated in many of their tent efforts; in addition, he served as a Family Life Leader, Sabbath School Teacher and participated in Community Bible Studies, winning many souls.

Mr. Fries was preceded in death by his mother, Mrs. Nellie Martin Fries; his father; stepfather, Mr. Edgar Jennings; his brother Mr. Elmo Fries; and son Mr. Jon Patrick Hedrick.

Mr. Robert Lee Fries, Sr.'s memories will be cherished by his beloved, faithful and devoted wife of 35 years, Mrs. Carolyn T. Fries; his beloved sisters: Ms. Francenia Smith and Ms. Wilma Fries, both of the city; his daughter, Ms. Mary Fries; sons: Mr. Robert (Beverly) L. Fries, Jr., Mr. Gerald Fries, Mr. Dana Hedrick, all of the city, Mr. James (Alesia) E. McWillis of Newburg, Maryland, Mr. Christopher (Angel) L. McWillis, Sr. of Cameron, North Carolina; 16 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren; a devoted cousin Geraline T. Hazel and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins and friends of the family.

Funeral Service will be held at 11:30 AM on Thursday, February 28, 2019 at Ephesus Seventh Day Adventist Church. The family will greet friends 30 minutes prior to the service. Interment in Woodland Cemetery.