J.W. “Jay” Fryrear

J.W. “Jay” Fryrear, 97, of Nevada, MO, passed away at home on July 9, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.   Jay was born January 22, 1928, in Johnson County, MO. He spent much of his early and young adult years in Oklahoma. After high school graduation, Jay worked in the Texas oil fields before enlisting in the U.S. Navy serving as a radio operator in the Pacific, later working with the U.S. Merchant Marines. He farmed in Warrensburg and California, MO before moving to Nevada in 1964 to join W.F. Norman Corporation, where he enjoyed a long career as accounting officer and corporate secretary.

A master gardener and craftsman, “Jay-of-all-trades” was known for his creativity, community involvement, and his wide-range of practical skills—woodworking, aviation, baking, weaving, and playing his own handcrafted dulcimer. He also enjoyed his small hobby and Christmas tree farm, where families could pick out and cut their own trees as well as enjoy a pony wagon ride.

Jay was preceded in death by his wife, Jean in 2000. He is survived by his partner, Phyllis Smith of Morris, IL; his daughter, Clarisse Teepe-Fryrear of Nevada, son Jim (Stacie) Fryrear of Kirkwood, MO, grandchildren Thijs Teepe (Beth), Emily Teepe (Joe), of Colorado Springs, CO, Allison (Mark) Wolff, Jennifer (Jake) Walsh, of St. Louis, MO, Natalie (Cole) Thomas of Indianapolis, IN, and six great-grandchildren. Jay will be remembered as a thoughtful, talented man and a beloved “Grandpa” to many. A graveside service will be held at a later date in Warrensburg, MO. Memorial donations may be made in his name to the Nevada R-5 Foundation for the Jean Fryrear scholarship fund in care of Ferry Funeral Home. 

Additional information about Jay’s life is available at ferryfuneralhome.com.

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