Barry Joseph Friel, Sr.

Barry Joseph “Joe” Friel. Sr., 62, of Odenton, MD passed away unexpectedly at home on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

Born in Phoenixville, he was the son of the late Jack and Edith Rafine Friel.

Joe graduated from Downingtown High School and then attended the Delaware County Municipal Police Academy. Joe retired as Police Chief of the Valley Township Police Department. In 2007, the Pennsylvania American Legion named him the Law Officer of the Year. Joe was a member of Cedar Grove Presbyterian Church in East Earl. He was a member of the Free and Accepted Masons and enjoyed having dinner with his children, traveling with his fiancé Melissa, walking, hiking and spending time with his dog, Lilly Belle. He was loved and will be missed by many.

Surviving is a son, Barry “Joey” Friel Jr. husband of Deven Murray Friel of New Holland; a daughter, Brittany wife of Beren Mann of San Diego; a brother, Harlan “Corky” Whisler partner of Dottie Sergent of Phoenixville; a sister, Leona wife of Dale Devore of Morgantown; and a fiancé, Melissa Alley Dowling of Odenton, MD. He was preceded in death by siblings, Robert Whisler, Donna Donnell and Jack Friel.

A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, March 19, at 11:00 A.M. at Cedar Grove Presbyterian Church, 4833 Division Highway, East Earl, PA. A Viewing will be held on Wednesday, March 18, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Groff High Funeral Home, 145 W. Main St, New Holland, PA and at the church on Thursday from 10:00 A.M. until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Lamancha Animal Rescue, 855 Doe Run Road, Coatesville, PA 19320.