James G. Friend

James G. Friend, 82, of Washington, died at 1 a.m. Monday, December 25, 2006, in Donnell House, Washington, following a three-week illness. He was born March 6, 1924, in Washington, a son of George and Marie McNary Friend. Mr. Friend was employed by Jessop Steel from 1952 until his retirement April 1, 1986. He was a member of Jessop Club and Edwin Scott Post 175 of the American Legion. He enjoyed having breakfast with his friends. During World War II, Mr. Friend served in the U.S. Army in the Pacific Theateer. He received the Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon with one bronze star, Good Conduct Medal and WWII Victory Medal. He married Lillian Ann Miller, who died February 1, 2002. Surviving are a son, James R. and wife Ginny Friend of Benwood, W.Va.; a daughter, Karen and husband Larry Murray of Sycamore; a sister, Jean Tallerico of Washington; seven grandchildren, Michael J. Friend, Michelle M. Evans, Jody Nader, Doug Murray, Andre Nader, Danielle Nader and Mandy Denoble; and six great-grandchildren. Deceased are three brothers, Stanley, Harold and Robert Friend. Friends will be received from 1 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, December 27, in William G. Neal Funeral Homes Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington, where services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, December 28, followed by interment in Forest Lawn Gardens, McMurray.