Edwin Clarkson Fry

Edwin C. Fry, 88, of Chestertown, MD, died June 1, 2012, at the Washington Hospital Center. Born in Washington, DC, on February 8, 1924, he was the son of the late Edwin D. and Susan Clarkson Fry. The oldest of five children, Ed graduated from Gaithersburg High School in 1942 and operated the family farm in Laytonsville with his father and siblings. During his youth, he was an active 4-H member, receiving state and national recognition. In 1945, Ed married Lorraine Millerp of of Mount Vernon, NY. As a young entrepreneur, Ed was an innovative leader in the agricultural industry. In addition to his dedication to FFA and recognition as an American Star Farmer, he helped to establish the Montgomery County Agricultural Center, served as a director for the National Holstein Association, pioneered new technologies in partnership with the Maryland Cooperative Extension Service, and promoted agriculture internationally with the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service. Ed and Lorraine moved Fair Hill Farm to Chestertown in 1960 with their four young children. Active throughout Kent County, Ed continued to mentor young agriculturalists, advanced farming practices and served his community as a Rotarian and active member of the Presbyterian Church of Chestertown. Ed later served as a longtime board member for both the Maryland State Fair and Chestertown Bank of Maryland. Ed is predeceased by his siblings, George Fry and Amy F. Leber. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Lorraine; brother, Frederick of Sudlersville; sister, Margery F. Grace, of Trumansburg, NY; daughter, Joan and husband Dr. Doug Cummings of Bay City, MI; and three sons, Edwin R. and wife Marian; Dr. Robert Fry and Judy Gifford; and Kenneth and wife Bronwyn, all of Chestertown. "Pop Fry," as he was fondly known to many, found great joy in his nine grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. A private family service was held Monday, June 4. A Celebration of Life memorial will be held on June 30 at 11a.m. at the Presbyterian Church of Chestertown. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to The Presbyterian Church of Chestertown, 905 Gateway Drive, Chestertown, MD 21620, or the Maryland 4-H Foundation, Edwin C. Fry Memorial, 8020 Greenmead Drive, College Park, MD 20740.

Edwin Clarkson Fry

February 8, 1924 - June 1, 2012