Pauline Friley

TRAVERSE CITY — Pauline Ruth Friley, 88, of Traverse City, formerly of Evansville, Ind., died peacefully Saturday, March 19, 2011, at the Grand Traverse Pavilions with her beloved family, including her devoted son, at her side. Pauline was born April 17, 1922, in Freelandville, Ind., daughter of Claud J. and Berniece (Bubenzer) Hayes. In 1943, she married Harry C. Friley in Bruceville; he died in December, 1999. They lived most of their life together in Evansville and enjoyed the celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary in 1993.Pauline was the only daughter of four children and was predeceased by her brothers, Paul in 1988 and Dan in 2000; and is survived by her youngest brother, Claud (Barbara) of Vincennes, Ind. Also surviving is her brother-in-law, George C. Friley, of Green Valley, Ariz. Pauline graduated from Bruceville High School in 1940 and worked much of her life. Her employers included Brown's Shoe Factory and Sahm's Department Store, but Pauline especially enjoyed her days teaching pre-school at Salem United Methodist Church in Evansville, as she adored young children. No child was as dearly loved as her son, Jon David Friley, born in 1952. Her granddaughters, Ariah Elizabeth and Javonne Elayne, were also her pride and joy. Pauline moved to Traverse City several years ago to be near her son, Jon "J.D." and his wife, Julie; her granddaughters, Ariah Friley, and Javonne and Josh Spencer; and step grandchildren, Jeremy and Mara Thompson. Pauline is survived by many nieces and nephews who will miss receiving thoughtful cards and calls from Aunt Pauline on special occasions. Reading novels was one of her great passions, and she could finish an entire book in a day up until her death. She also enjoyed pets, including special dachshunds and her birds, both domestic and those she coaxed to the feeders outside her house; she loved to watch them. A memorial service will be held on April 17, 2011, in Oakland City. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be directed to the Cherryland Humane Society, Grand Traverse Pavilions, Munson Hospice or the charity of your choice. The family would like to share their appreciation for the fine care provided by the staff at Munson Medical Center, the Grand Traverse Pavilions and Munson Hospice. Please share your memories and condolences with Pauline's family by way of her online guestbook at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com. The family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home in Traverse City.