Frederick Thomas Massey

Relatives and friends of Frederick Massey are invited to attend his Funeral Service with Military Honors, at 12:30 PM, Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at the graveside, Carolina Memorial Gardens, 7113 Rivers Ave., North Charleston, SC 29406.

Fred was born in Red Bank, New Jersey, on April 26, 1940. He was the son of Thomas Massey and Gladys Ottley Smith

He began his exemplary military career by enlisting in the United States Navy after graduating high school, shortly after he received the opportunity to study at Vanderbilt University for his first of many academic degrees, later earning a Master’s in English. While attending Vanderbilt University he met his wife of 60 years, Janet, in 1964. After completing his undergraduate degree, he returned to active duty, serving with distinction. His commitment and leadership were recognized through numerous honors, including the Defense Superior Service Medal, five Navy Meritorious Service Medals and two Navy Commendation Medals.

Following his naval retirement in July 1992, Fred continued to serve his community as an educator. He mentored the next generations as a founding Senior Naval Science Instructor of the first NJROTC program in West Ashley at St. Andrew’s High School, and later at West Ashley High School until retiring in 2007. Fred’s lifelong dedication to his community extended well beyond his careers as a helicopter pilot and educator. He served as the Disaster Services Chair for the American Red Cross Lowcountry Region until 2012 and remained deeply committed to fostering youth leadership through JROTC programs throughout the Southeast.

Fred loved to read, cook, write, and spend time with his family and people he met in his daily life. Whether he was speaking with a student or chatting with a cashier at the local grocery store, he always made time to brighten everyone’s day with a simple conversation and his witty sense of humor.

Fred is survived by his wife, Janet; his three grandchildren, Ryan (Meagan) Shipley, great-grandchild Lillie James Shipley, Christopher (Savanah) Beachler, and Lauren Shipley and her fiancé Delali Agortimevor. Fred was preceded in death by his parents; his daughters, Deborah Buse, and Audra Shipley; and grandchild, Thomas Beachler.

Arrangements by CAROLINA MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, 7113 Rivers Ave., North Charleston, SC 29406.