Obituary of Roberta "Kay" Friend Griffith Williams

Roberta “Kay” Friend Griffith Williams, age 88 went home to be with her Lord and Savior on August 6th, 2025. Kay was born on March 17, 1937, in Fairmont, WV to Alger and Evelyn Friend. She was a 1955 graduate of East Fairmont High School, and loved staying in touch with her classmates throughout the years. She was an active member of Bible Fellowship church for many years. She is survived by siblings Marilyn Shamblen of Ohio; Larry and Janet Friend of Virginia; Mark and Cathy Friend of Florida; Mike and Jo Hanna D’ Epiro of Ohio; and Jonnie Friend of Fairmont; as well as daughters Susan Floyd and husband Richard, and Jennifer Freeman and husband Jeff, both of Fairmont; her step-son, Rusty Williams and his wife Christi, her grandchildren Eric Floyd and wife Malissa, Amanda Wine and husband Ethan, Hannah Freeman, and Emma Freeman; great-grandchildren Kylie Floyd, Madisyn Garrison, Brooke Garrison, and Masen and Brooklyn Wine; and a special niece Carla Sands. The rest of Kay’s large extended family was also an integral part of her life. Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by her younger brother Jim Friend, her first husband and true love Freddie Griffith, her second husband John Williams, and her best friends Mary Anne Robinson, Marling Imes, and Patty Willey. A beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend; Kay was known for her love of the Lord and her love for her family. She enjoyed playing the piano at church, baking, playing cards, and spending time with her family. She was rarely found without a glass of sweet tea in her hand or a tissue in her pocket, and would never pass up an invitation to meet you at Cracker Barrel. Kay had a giving heart, and for many years, she donated turkey dinners and coats to children and their families who were in need throughout Marion County; and loved to volunteer her time teaching others to read. She especially loved providing coats, and she could not stand to hear of a child in need. Kay had a joy that allowed her to laugh through many difficult times. Her family would like to extend a special thank you to Taylor Healthcare Center and Amedisys Hospice Care, who took extremely good care of her for the last year of her life, and treated her with kindness and dignity. The family has entrusted the arrangements to Ford Funeral Home 201 Columbia Street, Fairmont, WV. At her request, the family will hold a graveside service on Saturday, August 9, 2025 at 1PM at Mt. Zion Cemetery in Fairmont with Pastor Brian Cole and her cousin Pastor Jim Solomon officiating. Online condolences may be made to www.fordfuneralhomes.com