Ellen Louise Fried

Ellen Louise Fried passed away on August 30, 2019 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Riverview, Florida. She was 76 years old.

Ellen was born on November 1, 1942 in Allentown, PA to her parents Jess and Evelyn Clarke.  She graduated from Parkland High School in 1960 and was married to Ted Fried in 1965.  Ellen enjoyed working as a Dental Assistant for Dr. Solan, DDS. She would often remark, "I can’t wait to wake up and go to work.” Most recently, she served as Secretary for the Clarke Family Foundation.

One of Ellen’s greatest passions was for music.  For over 30 years, she was a member of Sweet Adeline’s International – a worldwide organization of women singers.  Through Sweet Adeline’s, Ellen made lifelong friends and together, they created memories traveling and singing in barbershop harmony.  She often told stories of the fun they had saying “we laughed so hard the tears were rolling down my face.” Ellen was also a longtime member of the Chancel Choir at the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center.  Affectionately known as, “Lady Bass,” she was the only woman singing bass with all the men.    

Another passion of Ellen’s was, “bringing the fun.”  She was well known for providing the games, music, hats and costumes for any and all occasions.  She loved to play cards, go on trips of any kind and attend concerts.

Becoming a mother was the greatest achievement of Ellen’s life.  For 14 years, Ellen and Ted tried to have a child. Amazingly, after Ellen was touched by an Evangelist healer, their prayers were answered.  Ellen was a dedicated mother who cherished her only child. Countless stories and pictures of her “miracle child” have been documented in books, photo albums and scrapbooks made by her with love.  Ellen never missed a sporting event, recital or important event in her daughter’s life.  

Ellen is survived by her daughter Amanda “Mandy” Fried; her husband, Ted Fried; her sister Jane Grace and her brother Robert Clarke.  She is preceded in death by her brother Jess Clarke, Jr.

A Memorial Service will be held Monday, September 30th at 10:00 AM at Asbury United Methodist Church which is located at 1533 Springhouse Rd, Allentown, PA 18104.  

As the Choir brought Ellen so much joy, please consider making a donation to The Music Fund of The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center in memory of Ellen Fried.  Please see the About section below to access the link to the Online Donation.