Rylee Friend

Rylee David (Mullenax) Friend, 4, of Horse Shoe Run, WV was suddenly called home as a very special little Angel, Jan.21, 2016 from GRMC, Oakland, MD., as a result of an accidental choking. He was born Oct. 7, 2011, in Oakland, MD., he was the son of Kelsey Mullenax-Valentine, Terra Alta and Shane Friend, Oakland. Rylee was being reared by his maternal grandparents, Wayne and Melissa Mullenax, Horse Shoe Run, his Guardian Parents. He was preceded in death by his great-grandfather Harlin L. Wolfe, Sr., Eglon, July 21, ’15. Rylee loved being on the Mullenax family farm which he referred to as “my home”. He enjoyed helping Pappy Wayne with the animals and driving the JD tractor. With his favorite animal being his little kitten, Calico Baby, which he had named. He enjoyed farming so much he had re-created inside the house, his own little farm, emulating his Pappy by making and wrapping hay bales made from rolls of toilet paper and duct tape, feeding his toy animals and working on his equipment. He found great comfort at bedtime playing with his grandma’s hair and joy during the day helping bake cookies. He attended Pre-K at Aurora School where he enjoyed being with his teachers and classmates. Rylee donated his corneas and heart valves which have already been given to other children in need. He is also survived by his paternal grandmother, Tammy Moore, a half-brother, Braxton Friend, both of Oakland MD, an extra special aunt, Heather Mullenax, Palmyra,VA, whom he referred to as “Miss Heather”. Rylee was her pride and joy. Maternal great-grandmother Diana Wolfe, Eglon, WV, paternal great-grandparents, Roy and Marie Mullenax, Horse Shoe Run, WV, maternal great-great-grandmother, Dora Wolfe, Newberg, and several aunts, uncles and cousins. He will be remembered as being full of life and a very curious boy. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be directed to Union Ambulance, Aurora Mt. Grove Volunteer Fire Department, or Aurora School. Friends will be received, Tuesday, January 26, 2016 at Hinkle Funeral Home from 2-8 PM. Funeral services will be held, 1:00 PM, Wednesday, January 27, 2016 at Texas Bethel United Methodist Church with Rev. Cheryl George officiating. Interment will follow in the Texas Cemetery. Hinkle Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. www.hinklefuneralhome.com