Walter Richard Frazier

ARCHDALE - Walter Richard Frazier, age 84, passed away peacefully after declining health at the Hospice Home of the Piedmont on Sunday, October 1.

He is survived by his son David, daughter-in-law, Sally, son Bradford, daughter-in-law, Emily; and grandson, Paul.  He was preceded in death by parents Jesse Clifford and Evelyn Frazier, his precious wife Josie Ray Frazier in April, an infant son Richard Thomas, and a brother J.C. Frazier.

Born in rural Guilford County in 1933, Walter attended Allen Jay High School and East Carolina University.  Growing up he enjoyed spending time helping his father manage the Millis farm, training hunting dogs and leading game hunting trips. 

Walter, known to his friends as ‘Walt’ and ‘Rick,’ enlisted in the United States Air Force and proudly served at many duty stations around the globe.  While home on leave, he met Josie Ray at Belk’s Department Store.  It was love at first sight, and they soon were married and began their adventures together.  Shortly after their wedding Walt was stationed in Newfoundland with Josie by his side.  After his discharge from the Air Force at the rank of Staff Sergeant, Walt decided to continue to serve his country in the Air Force National Guard where he attained the rank of Technical Sergeant.

After returning to High Point, Walt worked as a technician at Raybond Electronics, servicing customers throughout the Southeastern US.  He was invited to join a then newly established Hatteras Yachts in High Point. He worked in the electrical engineering department, consulting on and designing many of the electrical systems in the Hatteras fleet.  His duties at Hatteras continued to expand and Walt became the Field Service Representative for Hatteras, visiting clients in almost every country in the world over his 35-year career.  He spoke fondly of his Hatteras family, remaining in touch with most of them long after his retirement.

Walt was a Private Pilot holding a private, commercial, multi-engine and instrument rating.  He shared his love of flying with his sons who also became pilots.  Walt used his flying skills acting as a search and rescue mission pilot with the Civil Air Patrol where he rose to the rank of Major.

Walt was active at Fairfield United Methodist church where he loved singing in the church choir.   He spoke often of how much he cared for his church family and was thankful for their visits and support during his illness.

The family will receive visitors at 1:30 PM Thursday, October 5, at Fairfield United Methodist Church, 1505 Highway NC 62 in High Point with the service following at 3:00 pm.  Graveside services will follow at Ebenezer Memorial Association Chapel Cemetery at 2096 Ebenezer Church Road, Archdale.

Condolences may be sent to the family on Walt’s tribute page at www.cumbyfuneral.com.

Memorials may be given in his honor to the Music Department at Fairfield United Methodist Church or to Hospice Home of the Piedmont in High Point, NC.

Cumby Family Funeral Service in Archdale is serving the Frazier family.

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