Mr. George A. Frye

George Arthur Frye, affectionately known as “Artie,” was born on May 10, 1962, in Boston, Massachusetts. He was the firstborn child of Mr. George Robert St. Clair Frye and Dr. Willease Story Sanders, both of whom preceded him in death. George joined them in eternal rest on Monday, July 14, 2025, at his home in Columbia, South Carolina.

George was formerly married to Tyra McRant with whom he maintained a close and enduring friendship. Though he had no known biological children, he was a devoted father figure to Jocelyn Weever, whom he helped raise alongside her mother, the late Sandra Weever.

A proud 1980 graduate of W.J. Keenan High School, George was a gifted musician, playing the viola in the orchestra and saxophone in the marching band. He later earned a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry from Benedict College, where he pledged Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated.

George briefly served in the United States Navy, receiving an honorable discharge due to medical reasons. He went on to become a self-employed graphic designer and computer technician, teaching himself the skills he needed to succeed. His creative talents were nurtured early on while working with his mother at her business, Zarana and Associates—a collaboration that continued throughout his life.

He is survived by two brothers, Mr. Walter Dakar El Hamad Frye (Veronica) of Charlotte, NC, and Mr. Kenton Lerone Robinson of Charleston, SC; three sisters, Mrs. Rana Carolyn Frye O’Bryant (Wayne) of Graniteville, SC; Dr. Zaria Willease Frye O’Bryant of Columbia, SC; and Ms. April Kimara Sanders, also of Columbia, SC; his beloved aunt, Mrs. Mary Jean Story Ford; his cherished nieces and nephews, Demanti St. Claire O’Bryant; William Sterling Sanders (children: Ava, LaLa, and Jr.); Tabari Wayne O’Bryant (son: Ace); Mensah Enoch O’Bryant; Erica Simone Sanders (son: Emerson); Daryl Elon O’Bryant; Jada Christine Reeves (son: Eli); and Razia Louise O’Bryant.

While his cousins across the world are too numerous to name, George’s cousin Keelin Alexis Ford must be recognized as a “sister” to him—providing unwavering support, joy, and comfort throughout his life, especially in moments of need.

His lifelong friend and fraternity brother, James “J.R.” Rowe, remained a constant presence and source of support, especially as George’s health declined.

George will be remembered for his deep love for his family and friends, his sense of humor, and generous spirit.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in memory of George to the Marching Keenan Raider Rubber Band through the W.J. Keenan Alumni Association via CashApp: 

$WJKALUMNI

For: George A. Frye Memorial 

Thank You 

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