Emmett Guy Fraley, Jr.

Emmett Guy "Red" Fraley Jr., 68, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2026. 

Born on August 2, 1957, in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, Red devoted his life to his family, his friends, and his greatest passion—music. At a young age, after watching The Beatles perform on The Ed Sullivan Show, he discovered his calling and began a lifelong journey as a musician. 

Throughout his life, Red performed with numerous bands and became well known for his talent, dedication, and love of entertaining others through music. Most recently, he was a member of the band Going Commando of Lexington, South Carolina. He also founded and performed with several of his own bands, including Watts Left, Phantom Rider, and Wishful Thinkin’. Earlier in his career, Red performed with the band Shiloh of Augusta, Georgia, an experience that would change his life forever, as it was there that he met his beloved wife. He often described their meeting as love at first sight. 

A gifted songwriter and recording artist, Red recorded several albums during his career and fulfilled a lifelong dream by writing and recording songs in Nashville, Tennessee. Music was more than a profession or pastime to him—it was the foundation of his life and a gift he generously shared with everyone around him. Prior to his retirement in 2023, he performed solo acoustic shows and DJed weddings, something he truly loved and took great pride in. 

Red was preceded in death by his parents, Emmett Guy "Red" Fraley Sr. and Muriel Bernice Dove Wells; his brothers, Jerry D. Spears and Randall S. Spears; and his sister, Linda G. Shuler. 

He is survived by his beloved wife of 25 years, Jennifer L. Fraley; his three children; numerous grandchildren and one great-grandchild; and his brothers, Dick Spears (Sheree) and Larry Spears (Ruthie). Numerous nieces and nephews. 

Red will be remembered for his unwavering passion for music, his warm spirit, and the lasting impact he made on the many lives he touched. His legacy lives on through his songs, his performances, and the cherished memories he leaves behind. 

A Celebration of Red's life will be held at a later date.