Judith Lane (Griffin) Frye

Judith Lane Frye, born June 1, 1943, in Alexandria, Louisiana, to Willie Fred Griffin and Elva Marler Griffin, passed away peacefully Thursday morning January 29th with family at bedside. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, educator, and faithful servant of Christ, she lived a life rich in love, learning, and legacy.

Judy grew up in Springhill, Louisiana, where she graduated from Springhill High School in 1961.It was there that she first met the love of her life, Charles Ray Frye Sr. Judy graduated from Louisiana Tech University in 1966 with a degree in English Education. That same year, on August 6, she married the love of her life, Charles Ray Frye Sr., who survives her. Married for 59 years they built a family and a home filled with warmth and faith.

She dedicated her career to teaching English and literature, inspiring students across middle school, high school, and college levels. After years of service in various settings, she spent her final 23 years at Pascagoula High School, where she became beloved for her passionate instruction of Advanced Placement English. Her deep appreciation for Shakespeare and reading touched hundreds of young lives, fostering a lifelong love of literature in her students. Her signature catchphrase, “Literature is Life,” echoed through the years—former students would fondly greet her with those very words long after they had graduated, a testament to the enduring impact she had.

A faithful member of Arlington Baptist Church in Pascagoula, Mississippi, Judy served joyfully in many capacities. She was especially known for her dedicated teaching of Sunday School to high school students and adults, sharing her faith and wisdom with warmth and conviction.

Judy is survived by her husband, Charles Ray Frye Sr.; her daughter, Dena Lane Smith (married to Michael Eric Smith); her son, Dr. Charles Ray Frye Jr. (married to Kelly Avery Frye); seven cherished grandchildren: Abbey Lane Smith, Annabelle Joy Vickers (Dakota), Jeb Michael Smith (Isabel), William Charles Frye (Sarah Beth), Caroline Avery Frye, Elizabeth Marie Frye, and Griffin Thomas Frye; and three great-grandchildren: Evelyn Joy Vickers, Thomas McLane Vickers, and Theodore James Frye.

Judy’s life exemplified the truth she so often shared: Literature is Life—and through her teaching, family, and faith, she brought that truth vividly to life for all who knew her. Her legacy of love, learning, and devotion will continue to inspire generations.

The family would like to extend gratitude to their many loyal church friends and neighbors with specific thanks to Robin Weihing and Jan Avery, for their companionship during Judy’s waning days. 

The family would also like to express their deepest gratitude to Vital Caring Hospice and also to Ms. Nadean Watson for the extraordinary, compassionate care and kindness they provided which allowed Judy to spend her final days surrounded by love in the comfort of her own home.

Visitation will be Saturday, January 31, 2026 at Arlington Baptist Church from 11:30am-1:00pm. The funeral will follow at 1PM and conclude with private family burial at Machpelah Cemetery.  

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Gideons International.

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