Fredia D. Duke

Fredia D. Duke passed away peacefully on June 11, 2025, in Pensacola, Florida, at the age of 87. Born on March 2, 1938, in Nashville, Tennessee, Fredia led a life defined by love, dedication, and a spirited personality that touched everyone around her.

A proud Valedictorian of Howard High School in Nashville, Fredia quickly became known for her headstrong personality, honesty, and unwavering dedication. She believed in a structured life, and this discipline extended to all aspects. These traits not only made her a remarkable mother but also established a home filled with time-honored values that were passed not just to her children, but her grandchildren as well.

Fredia devoted over 30 years to Washington manufacturing, followed by a 17 year career as an accountant at Nashville Wire, where her exceptional work ethic and reliability earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues. Even after her retirement, Fredia’s insisted on being a help to those she loved; she eagerly supported her son, Duke, in his towing business, making sure neither dollar nor penny was amiss.

Her grandchildren knew her as "othermama," a title that encapsulated the role she played in their lives. Fredia took a profound interest in their well-being, but also in spoiling them - from school nights to family vacations. She treated them to memorable outings, including trips to Opryland, which were always accompanied by her loving touch and joyful spirit.

Fredia cherished her leisure hours as much as her responsibilities. She often enjoyed nights out at restaurants, with Olive Garden's “Tour of Italy” being one of her favorite indulgences. Her adventurous spirit took her on various travels, including trips to Graceland, Germany, and the serene beaches of Hawaii, where she balanced relaxation with exploration. While traveling, she especially loved to see lighthouses. When at home, she frequently called her family and was always seen with a cup of coffee in her hands. If not coffee, Fredia was known for her rampant love of old-school shopping, and she always had a catalog nearby. 

Family was at the core of Fredia's being; she relished her role as a grandmother, immersing herself wholeheartedly in the lives of her children and grandchildren. She leaves behind her daughter Darlene (Bobby), and her children Kyri (Britney), Lee (Melody) and their children Chance, Chase, and Cooper, Kayce (Kelly), and their children, Kyleigh and Kinley, Kelsi Hughes, Wyatt (Sarah), and their children Wade and Bo. She also leaves her son Duke (Kristie), and their children Charles Duke III (Tasha) and their children Elijah and Emma, Joshua (Julie) and their children Waylon and Khristian, Destiny and her daughter Lilah, Jaxson, Ryan (Mary) and their children Nathaniel and Ezekal, Brianna and her children Adrian, Liam, Nakiayah, and Nikeem, McKenzie (Eric) and their child Karter, Josie (Lane) and their children Haisley and Greyson. She also leaves behind several nieces and nephews, as well as several children on the way. It was her wish to let everyone know that she loved you all equally, and was thrilled to have met everyone.

Fredia is also survived by her faithful companion, her Boston Terrier, Wine, who she loved very much. 

Fredia was preceded in death by her loving parents, Luther and Nettie Stinson; her cherished husband, Charles Sr. Duke; her brother, Luther (Francis); and her sister, Joyce. Their memories remained close to her heart throughout her life, shaping the person she became.

A visitation will be held on June 18, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Goodlettsville, Tennessee. A funeral service will follow, starting at 12:00 PM, concluding with a burial at Nashville National Cemetery at 1:00 PM.

Fredia D. Duke will be remembered not just for her strong personality, but for the love she shared and the lives she enriched. She was a god-fearing woman who has found peace in the heavens above. Her legacy of family pride, adventure, and unwavering love will continue to shine in the lives of those who were fortunate enough to know her.