Freddie Ellis Hector

He was born on August 22, 1939, in Keiser, Arkansas, to the late James and Bertha Hector. In addition to his parents, Freddie was preceded in death by one sister and six brothers.

Freddie is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Mona Hector; his daughter, Jennifer Steadman (James); and grandchildren, Kristin Bohanan (Brandon), Michael Flacke (Rebecca), and Sean Ilard. He also leaves behind his beloved great-grandchildren: Crystal Collwell, Braydon Bohanan, Jaydon Bohanan, Carolyn Bohanan, Ruby Bohanan, Haydon Flacke, Liam Flacke, Braxton Flacke, and Clayton Flacke, and Raegan Ilardi.

In 1964 Freddie became paralyzed in the line of duty. He returned to work in his wheelchair and proudly served as a police Sergeant for over 25 years, dedicating his life to protecting and serving his community. Following his retirement from law enforcement, he worked at the VA Hospital Mobility Lab for 12 years, where he continued helping others with compassion and care. Earlier in life, he also worked as a zookeeper at the Memphis Zoo, where he was especially known for his work with the monkeys—an experience he cherished and often shared stories about.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Wednesday, July 30, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with a Rosary at 7:00 p.m., at Memphis Funeral Home, 5599 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN. A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, July 31, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, 3700 Thomas Street, Memphis, TN. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery, 1663 Elvis Presley Boulevard, Memphis, TN.

Freddie will be remembered as a man of faith, strength, and service, who brought kindness, dedication, and love into every role he held—as a husband, father, grandfather, public servant, and friend.