Frederick Raymond Crowley Jr.

October 19, 1960 – September 11, 2026

Frederick Raymond Crowley, Jr. passed away on September 11, 2026, at the age of 65.

Frederick was born on October 19, 1960, and was a lifelong Marylander. He graduated from Bladensburg High School in 1978, where he particularly thrived in shop class. He had a natural talent for mathematics and an uncanny sense of direction—he seemed to always know exactly where he was, quite literally, and somehow never seemed to get lost.

Fred had a lifelong appreciation for music. A devoted KISS fan, he also enjoyed R&B and was a talented singer with a beautiful bass voice. He sang with the church group The Lights of Lanham, sharing a love of music that remained a meaningful part of his life. He was also an avid collector, with a particular appreciation for coins, tools, antiques, and other unusual or interesting pieces he came across. His curiosity and appreciation for items with history, character, or a story behind them remained a defining part of who he was.

Fred also had a lifelong passion for motorcycles, which began in his teenage years while working at the original Annapolis Harley-Davidson dealership and through racing. His enthusiasm for motorcycles continued throughout his life, alongside his love of roller skating, martial arts (achieving a brown belt in taekwondo under Grandmaster Jhoon Rhee), Halloween, roller coasters, video games, and the many hobbies and interests that kept his curiosity and the thrill of the open road alive.

Fred began his professional career at Merkle Press in Landover before joining The Washington Post in 1983. He was also an active member of John B. Latimer American Legion Post 217 in College Park, where he found community and fellowship among fellow members.

Frederick was preceded in death by his father, Frederick Raymond Crowley, Sr., a U.S. Army Staff Sergeant and Korean War veteran. He is survived by his mother, Charlotte Joycelyn (née Ridgley) Crowley; his three children, Amber Crowley, Bethany DeRight, and Aubrey Crowley; his grandchildren, Jameson and Violet DeRight; his former wife, Suzanne Brugh; his sister, Susan Kummerlowe; his niece; two nephews; and a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins.

The countless stories, lifelong hobbies, and unmistakable character that made him uniquely “Freddie” will remain a lasting part of the memories shared by those who knew and loved him. His memory will live on through his children, grandchildren, mother, sister, extended family, and those who called him friend.