William Busey Frye, 84, of Versailles, passed away Tuesday, March 11, 2025. He was born in Bagdad, Kentucky, the son of Beulah and Busey Frye.
Bill attended Shelbyville High School, where he excelled as a three-sport athlete, playing football, baseball and basketball – proudly competing in the state tournament three times. He went on to attend Eastern Kentucky University and the University of Kentucky, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 1963.
He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Jane Smith Frye, and his children: Jeff Frye (Kim) of Versailles, William “B” Frye (Kelly) of Nicholasville, Ky., and Dr. Kelly Shedd (Omer) of Cramerton, N.C. He was a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren: Blane Frye, Clark Frye (Janie), Will Frye, Laney Frye, Woods Frye, Ashlee Shedd, Maxwell Shedd and Caroline Shedd; and a delighted great-grandfather to Palmer Jane Frye.
A dedicated business and civic leader, Bill played a vital role in the Versailles community from the late 1960s through the early 1990s. He owned and operated Colyer Hardware, Your Hardware and Frye’s Do-It Center, and served on various advisory boards within the hardware industry. He also contributed to the financial community through his service on the boards of Woodford Bank and Community Trust Bank. Earlier in his career, Bill worked with the Department of Revenue and the University of Kentucky Medical Center before pursuing his business ventures in Versailles.
Bill was a member of First Christian Church in Versailles. He will be remembered for his dedication to family, his contributions to the community and the countless friendships he cultivated throughout his life.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First Christian Church, Versailles, or Southland Christian Church, Nicholasville, Kentucky.
Visitation was held on Saturday, March 15 at First Christian Church, Versailles. The funeral service was held immediately afterward, followed by burial at the Versailles Cemetery. Clark Funeral Home, Rose Hill is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.ClarkLegacyCenter.com.