Ms. Opal B. Frailey

Opal B. Frailey, 91, of Cave-In-Rock, IL. Passed away peacefully at her home on January 26, 2013. She was born on October 28, 1921 to Joe Gentry Barnard and Myra Alma Milligan Barnard.
She was married to James Arthur Frailey on December 31, 1947 in Morganfield, Ky. He preceded Opal on July 18, 1984. To this union there was one child, Marla Rae.
Opal graduated from Cave-In-Rock High School in 1939. Liker her sisters, Opal continued her education while her brothers stayed home to work on the farm and at the quarry. She received a degree in Education from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. During World War II, Opal worked in an airplane factory in Detroit, Michigan with her best friend Eureta (Blakely) DeWitt. After the war she returned home and began her teaching career in a one room school house, St. John’s School, in rural Hardin County. Thereafter, “Miss Opal” taught 1st grade at Cave-In-Rock Grade School, finishing her career at the Hardin County Consolidated School District 37 years later. Opal was a member of the First Christian Church of Cave-In-Rock, IL. For many years and attended regularly until the last few weeks when her health no longer permitted.
Opal is survived by her daughter Marla Frailey-Berger, son-in-law Peter L. Berger, and grandchildren Daniel James and Anne Alisha. She also leaves behind one sister: Laura and Bill Switzer, and two brothers: Weldon “Bill” and Norma Barnard, Ray and Marie Barnard; one sister-in-law: Laura Z. Barnard, and numerous cherished nieces and nephews.
Opal was preceded by her husband James; sisters Verdna “Bubbie” Austin and Irene “Tootie” Kaegi, and brothers Rad Barnard, Winfred Barnard and Jessie Barnard.
After her retirement she enjoyed quilting, gardening, traveling, walking through the village and park, and spending time with her family. In her later years she participated in activities at the Golden Circle Senior Center. She especially enjoyed her 90th birthday party attended by her family, friends, and many of her former students.
Opal will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and teacher. We will miss her presence and her strength.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Cave Hill Cemetery in Cave-In-Rock, IL., the First Christian Church of Cave-In-Rock, IL., or the charity of you choice.
Hardin County Funeral Services, Rose-Gilbert Funeral Home is in charge of services. Visitation will be January 29, 2013 from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Funeral Services will be January 30, 2013 at 11:00 A.M. at the First Christian Church in Cave-In-Rock, IL. Family to receive after 9:00 A.M. Burial will follow at Cave Hill Cemetery. Rev. Jeff Bullock will officiate the services.