Frederick E. Reno

Frederick Edmund Reno, a man of steadfast faith, quiet dignity, profound integrity and generosity, and a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, and gentleman entered into the presence of our Lord on December 27, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 86 years old.

Born on July 20, 1939, in Reno, Nevada to Dr. Elwood F. and Rhoda M. Reno, Fred spent his life in service of his family and his Savior Jesus Christ. Reared in Reno alongside his sister Joyce, he often accompanied his father on patient house calls, sparking an early interest that would shape his future career.

It was in an old-fashioned soda shop within the Hale’s Drug store in Reno, NV that he met the love of his life, Judie McMahon. While Judie worked the soda shop, Fred would stop in to collect prescriptions for local delivery. Their courtship over custom-ordered milkshakes and sundaes led to a blessed union on September 12, 1964. They built a cherished family, which grew to include two beloved daughters, Jennifer and Christie, making their home in Virginia, before later moving to and settling in Florida.

Fred’s distinguished career began in law enforcement and as a paramedic, then after earning his Ph.D., as Study Director in the Toxicology Department at Hazelton Laboratories America, eventually leading him to become a globally recognized authority in pharmaceutical toxicology. Often referred to as the “Dean of Pharmaceutical Toxicology”, his 60-year history in the industry was marked by exceptional expertise and an unfaltering commitment to public safety and drug development. He earned degrees from the University of San Francisco and the University of Nevada culminating in a Ph.D. in toxicology from Utah State University. Fred’s professional acumen was evident in advising companies and government agencies worldwide in toxicology, biocompatibility, drug and device development, product safety evaluation, and strategic preclinical testing. Along with authoring dozens of scientific papers and publications for peer reviewed journals and industry textbooks, he presented effectively in hundreds of FDA meetings, creating more than one hundred successful drug development toxicology programs, including notable medications like Metoprolol, Flagyl, Glucagon Nasal Powder, and topical Lidocaine preparations.

He was a respected member of and held elected roles in several esteemed professional societies, including the Society of Regulatory Toxicology, American College of Toxicology, the Society of Toxicology and the European Society of Toxicology. Fred held Appointments for the Toxicology Advisory Committee and Regulatory Advisory Committee of the National Agricultural Chemicals Associates, the Risk Assessment Subcommittee, American Industrial Hygiene Council, and GRAS Review of the National Academy of Science.

Beyond his professional life, Fred was known for his heart to serve his Lord Jesus Christ through pastoring and teaching at churches in Virginia and Florida and biblical exposition at national and international ecclesiastical venues. Whether shared from the pulpit, podium, or a picnic table, Fred’s eloquent expression and easy-going demeanor coupled with theological insight greatly served his teaching of the Scriptures across his decades of ministry. He impacted countless lives with his steadfast Faith, wise counsel, resolute integrity, and gentle spirit.

A man of unwavering loyalty, he was a lifelong (and long-suffering) fan of the Washington Redskins (Commanders) and a true master of the backyard barbecue. He found satisfaction in cheering on his team and his expertly grilled hamburgers and salmon, sharing his devotion generously with those he loved. A true enthusiast of the literary world, he enjoyed a broad spectrum of books, articles, and papers and an equally diverse range of podcasts, which he listened to daily.

A true patriarch, Fred was the steadfast heart of his family. His humility and profound wisdom served as a constant guiding light, while his life beautifully mirrored the grace and character of his Heavenly Father. He leaves behind a legacy of spiritual stewardship that will resonate for generations.

Fred leaves to carry on his legacy: his devoted wife of 61 years, Judith; his daughters Jennifer (Bradley Graber) and Christie (Mitch Lowe); his grandchildren Lauren Graber; Cayla Lowe; Judah Graber and wife, Lainey; Cade Lowe; and Gabriel Graber; his adored great-grandchildren, Gillie and Myla Graber (Judah); his beloved sister, Joyce Reno Connors of Walnut Creek, CA; many cherished nieces and nephews, and a fellowship of dear friends whose lives he touched deeply.

Fred’s family finds peace in knowing he is in the presence of his loving Savior and eagerly awaits their heavenly reunion.

A memorial service to celebrate Fred’s exceptional life will be held on Saturday, January 31 at 3:00 PM at Church of Viera, 9005 N Wickham Road, Melbourne, Florida.

We invite all who knew and loved Fred to join us in honoring his memory.