Abingdon, Virginia
William Leonard “Will” Fritz, 51, passed away Sunday, January 14, 2024, at Bristol Regional Medical Center surrounded by his loving family.
Will was born December 31, 1972, to Jerry and Phyllis Fritz. He began a career in EMS at the age of 15 and would later obtain his National Registry Paramedic certification. Will served many EMS agencies all over southwest Virginia and northeastern Tennessee. He also spent time as a firefighter for Bristol, Tennessee and Damascus, Virginia. While tirelessly serving his community, he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree from Virginia Intermont College and a Master’s in Business Administration from Milligan University. Will had a love for saving lives, teaching others, and bringing a smile to everyone. Will achieved all these and more in his most-loved position as a base medical manager and flight medic for Wings Air Rescue.
Will is survived by his son, William Blake Fritz of Bristol; his loving parents, Jerry and Phyllis Fritz of Abingdon; special cousins, Travis (Jessica) Fritz and Brian Fritz of Abingdon; special friends, Rachel Frost, Jay Gouge, and Kaden Sweet. Will is also survived by several aunts, uncles, and many dear friends.
The family wishes to thank each person for their calls, visits, and acts of kindness during Will’s illness. A special thanks to Vickie Steely, Aunt Claudia Snead, the nursing staff of Bristol Regional Medical Center, and Ballad Health Hospice for their comfort and compassion shown to Will in the final days of his life.
The family will receive friends Wednesday, January 17, 2024, from 5:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. at Frost Funeral Home in Abingdon. A funeral service will follow at 8:00 P.M. with Pastor Robert Blevins officiating. A graveside service will be held Thursday, January 18, 2024, at 2:00 P.M. at Sunset Memorial Park in Damascus, Virginia. Those wishing to attend the graveside service are asked to meet at the cemetery by 1:45 P.M.
Travis Fritz, Kaden Sweet, Kevin Sweet, Ray Dawson, Cody Jackson, and Zach Fritz will serve as pallbearers.
Jay Gouge, Larry Musick, Amanda Pearman, Brian Kimberlin, Mark Blakenship, David Musick, Dewey Sweet, Graham Sweet, and all EMS and Fire Service personnel everywhere will serve as honorary pallbearers.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made in Will’s honor to your local Emergency Medical Service or fire agency.
Frost Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to serve the family of Mr. William “Will” Fritz.