James Kenneth Friend

June 12, 1941 - January 23, 2021

James Kenneth Friend, 79 of Chester, VA died on Saturday, January 23, 2021. Born in Pulaski VA, he was the son of the late Basil Mozelle Friend and Nellie Jackson Friend, and was also preceded in death by his loving wife of 58 years, Dixie Lee Friend; and brothers, Basil Friend and Billy Friend. He is survived by two daughters, Donita Friend King and her husband, Warren, Kimberly Friend Wade; son, Jeffrey Kenneth Friend and his wife, Vicki; six grandchildren, Amanda Babukovic, Melisa Arbogast, Carrie Wampler, Nathan Pittard, Izabella Friend and Ella-Grace King; four great-grandchildren, Hunter Babukovic, Neveah Arbogast, Tatum Arbogast and Ellis Wampler. In addition, he is survived by one brother, Terry Friend of Galax; two sisters, Betty Gallagher of Chester, and Gertrude Jackson of Dublin, VA.; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He devoted many hours volunteering in his community. He enjoyed landscaping, gardening, NASCAR and country music. He was outspoken and eager to engage in spirited debate, was lucky in Lotto and loved traveling. He was also a lover of antiques, but his greatest love was his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The family would like to express our gratitude for your condolences and sympathy, they have been a great encouragement and blessing in our time of loss. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478 Oklahoma City, OK 73123.