Marie Janet "M.J." Fry

Marie Janet “M.J.” Fry, 89, of Amarillo, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 11, 2026. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at Cox-Rowley Funeral Home Chapel, 4180 Canyon Drive, with Pastor Dale Moreland officiating. Burial will follow at Llano Cemetery.

M.J. was born on May 18, 1937, in Longmont, Colorado, to Roy and Eve Eisele. Her life was marked by hard work, devotion to family, and a genuine love for people. Before making Amarillo her home, she spent several years in Hollywood, California, where she worked for Trans World Airlines in communications and reservations. The experience allowed her to meet people from all walks of life and reflected her natural gift for connecting with others. After moving to Texas, M.J. met the love of her life, J.W. “John” Fry. The two were married on March 26, 1975, in Amarillo and built a life centered on love, family, and friendship. In 1986, M.J. lovingly adopted her four-year-old grandson, Jacob, and she and John devoted themselves to raising him, providing him with unwavering love, guidance, and support.

In 1967, M.J. began what would become an extraordinary career at Pantex. Working in the reproduction department, she dedicated 50 years of service to the organization, eventually retiring as a team lead at the remarkable age of 80. She often said that the reason she stayed so long was simple—she loved the people she worked with. The friendships she formed there were among her greatest treasures, and her coworkers became like family.

M.J. was known for her warm smile, friendly personality, and compassionate spirit. She never met a stranger and had a unique ability to make others feel welcome and valued. Whether sharing stories, lending a helping hand, or simply offering a kind word, she brought joy to those around her. She loved spending time outdoors, especially fishing with family, creating memories that will be cherished for generations. One of her favorite adventures was traveling to Las Vegas with her daughter, Debbie. Together they enjoyed countless trips, laughter-filled days, and the excitement of the casino floor. M.J. faithfully played her favorite Cherry Jubilee slot machines and was delighted to celebrate many jackpot wins over the years. An avid animal lover, M.J. had a special place in her heart for cats. Her kindness extended to every creature she encountered, and she was well known for caring for and feeding countless stray cats. Her gentle and generous nature reflected the compassion that defined her life.

Even during times of illness and hardship, M.J. faced each day with quiet strength and grace. She rarely complained and remained grateful for the people she loved. Her resilience, kindness, and enduring spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

M.J. was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Eve Eisele; her brothers, Jack Eisele, Donald Eisele, and Kenneth Eisele; and her stepson, John Fry.

She is survived by her beloved husband, J.W. Fry; her daughter, Debbie Ozee and husband Kenny of Lipan, Texas; her stepsons, Thomas Fry and wife Cathy of Bowie, Texas, and Rodney J. Fry of Kerrville, Texas; and her adopted grandson, Jacob. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Trey Ozee, Chase Ozee and wife Marina, Cody T. Fry, Magan Baker, Jason Fry, Cody Fry, Cory Fry, Rocky Fry and Reid Fry; and many great-grandchildren, all of whom were blessed by her love and presence.

M.J.’s family and friends will remember her for her hardworking nature, her loving heart, her devotion to family, and the kindness she showed to both people and animals. Her legacy of compassion, loyalty, and love will continue to live on in the lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

The family suggests memorial donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital through St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or to Special Olympics through Special Olympics.