Leo Alfred "Buddy" Frey, Jr

Leo Alfred "Buddy" Frey, Jr.

Cashiers, NC - Leo Alfred "Buddy" Frey, Jr., died January 22 in Live Oak, Florida. He was 86. Buddy was born to the late Leo Frey, Sr. and late Naomi Watkins, March 7, 1927, in Gary, Florida. Buddy served in the Coast Guard during World War II as a demolition diver, enlisting at 17. After an honorable discharge, he promptly headed home to Tampa, FL to marry his long time love, Helen Lucille Frink.

Buddy was a gifted mechanic who joyfully repaired cars for over sixty years. During his lifetime, he owned two automotive repair shops, the first in Odessa, FL, and the second in Cashiers, NC, the mountain town where he relocated his family in 1974. Buddy also enjoyed creating custom "flivvers", vehicles he built from the ground up that were reminiscent of Model A trucks. He was a VW Beetle enthusiast, firearm collector, crack shot, and gifted storyteller. Buddy enjoyed shooting the breeze with his friends almost as much as he enjoyed spending time with his family. In 2007, he semi retired and moved with his wife to Live Oak, FL. Buddy is preceded in death by his sons Forest and Valiant Frey, and daughter Susan Moss. He is survived by his wife of 68 years and three children: Robin Frey of Live Oak, FL; Dawn Cramer of Swanton, OH; and Heather Blanton of Apex, NC. He also leaves behind many beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held Friday, February 7 at noon at Cashiers Church of God.

Bryant Grant Funeral Home, Franklin NC is in charge of local arrangements.
Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.