James W. “Billy” Friend

James W. Friend (Billy) of Madison Heights passed peacefully from this world after a long illness on March 21, 2011.

Gone on before him were his father, James C. Friend, his mother Gladys H. Friend, two sisters Virginia Cumby and Louise Cumby ,two brothers David W, Friend and Earl D. Friend (Jack) and his beloved dog Remus.

Left to cherish his memories are the following loving and devoted persons, Nancy F. Page and husband Eldridge, his niece Connie Kendrick and husband Roland, Connie\"™s two children Heather Erb and Benny R. Saunders, Jr. , his cousin Beverly Betag and special friends Wayne and Juanita Ennis, Larry Angus and a host of other relatives and friends.

Before Billy\"™s bout with Parkinson he loved hunting, fishing, swimming, camping out, photography, UFS fights and his volumes collection of movies. He enjoyed feeding the birds and squirrels and was devoted to his dog Remus.

The family would like to thank all the caregivers, the doctors and nurses at Virginia Baptist Hospital and most of all the hospice associates who helped make his final journey peaceful.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Amherst County Humane Society, P.O. Box 614, Amherst, VA.  24521.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

Tharp Funeral Home and Crematory Madison Heights Chapel, 118 Commonwealth Drive, Madison Heights, Va.  24572 (434-929-0055) is assisting the family.