He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 49 years, Sylvia Sargent Cushing.
Fred embraced the motto, “Live each day to the fullest as you never know whether it may be your last”. He never met a stranger and his complete love of life and people left everyone he met feeling special. And then there was “the smile”.
Fred was born in Bogalusa, LA and moved to Mobile at an early age.
He was a graduate of University Military School and maintained those close friendships throughout his life. He attended Tulane University and obtained his dental degree from the University of Alabama. He earned his orthodontic degree from the University of New York and served as the Chief Dental Officer with the US Navy, USS Constitution.
He returned to Mobile to start his private orthodontic practice that successfully thrived for over 30 years, and through which he built long term friendships. Fred received many awards and acknowledgements from numerous professional associations and causes. However, he was most proud of his volunteer work and the progress made in the treatment of cleft pallet patients.
Fred was involved in many civic and social organizations, bringing his contagious enthusiasm and excitement along with him.
Many of his life-long friendships were formed while hunting and fishing.
He passed these passions onto the next generation.
Fred was an active member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Mobile and St. Francis Episcopal Church at Dauphin Island. His love for the church was fueled by the comfort he received from both the ministers and parishioners. It was his home.
He is survived by his son, Dan Cushing (Shawn); daughter, Cele Cameron (Allan); and his grandchildren: Ashton, Ali and “Chloe” Cushing; Elizabeth, Allan, Frederick and Ben Cameron; and his dear friend, Ruth Austill. He was also blessed by the care and friendship of Lula Perryman for decades.
Visitation will take place at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church at 11AM on Monday, August 6th with a memorial service to follow at 12PM. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the Child Advocacy Center or a charity of ones choice.
