Frederick (Freddie) Ashford Harper was born on June 25, 1931, in Brooklyn, New York, to Johnnie Bell Harper (née Ashford) and Theodore Harper.
Freddie attended Franklin K. Lane High School before entering the United States Air Force. It was during his military service that he developed a deep appreciation for education. Stationed near a college, he took advantage of the opportunity to enroll in courses in Public Speaking, Oral Communication, and Accounting. These skills served him well throughout his life and career.
Honorably discharged in 1955 with the rank of Sergeant, Freddie returned to New York City, where he began working for the MTA New York City Transit Authority as a conductor—a position that made his father especially proud, as he too had been a conductor. Over time, Freddie rose through the ranks, eventually becoming an Assistant Train Master at the Command Center. He retired from the MTA on August 24, 1983.
Throughout his MTA career, Freddie formed strong bonds with many colleagues, some of whom became lifelong friends. Together, they established a social club, “Les Patron," which organized countless excursions and events, creating cherished memories for friends and family alike.
Never one to remain idle, Freddie used his retirement to give back to the community. He worked as a paraprofessional at Springfield Gardens High School in Queens, NY, and as a tax preparer for H&R Block, putting his education and people skills to continued good use.
Freddie fully embraced his retirement years. He was an avid traveler, especially fond of cruises and casino getaways. Whether at the poker table or watching horse races at the track, he enjoyed life with gusto—often with his signature drink in hand: Grey Goose vodka.
On November 19, 1988, Freddie married Carole G. Whittaker. Together, they transitioned from the hustle and bustle of New York to a more serene life in Punta Gorda, Florida, where they lived happily until his passing on Sunday, June 22, 2025—just three days shy of his 94th birthday.
Though we mourn his loss, we are filled with gratitude for the 93 extraordinary years he shared with us—years marked by love, laughter, service, and unwavering friendship.
Freddie was preceded in death by his daughters Donna Dwight and Patricia Matthews, and his siblings James E. Harper and Eloise Leslie.
He is lovingly remembered and survived by:
His devoted wife, Carole G. Harper
His daughter, Barbara Harper
Granddaughters: Shanice Plato Talley, Harper Matthews, Natasha Dwight
Grandson: Theodore Dwight
Great-granddaughters: Deanni Dalrymple, Nya‘h Talley
Great-grandsons: Nasir Austin, JaCoby Ferreira, and JaBril Ferreira
Nieces: Marlene Leslie, Diane Leslie, Reneé Harper, Jencie Boland
And a host of other loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Freddie Harper was the embodiment of a life well lived. His wisdom, warmth, and unwavering presence will forever remain embroidered in our hearts.
With love and remembrance,
The Family
A funeral service for Frederick will be held Thursday, July 10, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Home, 2405 Harbor Blvd, Port Charlotte, Florida 33952. Following the funeral service will be a committal service with military honors at 2:00 PM at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Rd 72, Sarasota, Fl 34241.
