Frederick (Fred) James Free

Fred graduated from John Jay High School in Katonah, New York, in 1959. He earned his bachelor's degree from Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, in 1963, received a Master of Public Administration degree from Roosevelt University, and completed the Hospital Executive Development Program at Saint Louis University.

He proudly served his country as a Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, with the 8th Engineer Battalion. Following his military service, Fred built a successful career in the food service and hospitality industry, retiring as Regional Vice President for Compass Group North America.

For 36 years, Fred shared a loving marriage with his wife, Linda Ellen Free. He was known for his generosity, strong work ethic, and willingness to help others. Friends and family could always count on him for practical advice, a helping hand, and a good laugh.

Fred enjoyed farming, hunting, cooking, and bringing people together. Some of his happiest moments were spent hosting family and friends, preparing meals, and gathering around the dinner table. His familiar reminder, “Don’t forget the gravy,” became a cherished family tradition.

He loved telling jokes and had a gift for making people smile. Whether celebrating a holiday, sharing stories, or simply spending time with loved ones, Fred brought warmth, humor, and enthusiasm to every occasion.

Fred is survived by his wife, Linda Ellen Free; daughters, Bonnie May (Free) White, Holly Jean (Free) Swinney (Willie), Katherine Corey (Free) McAuley (Bodie), and Janie Francis (Free) Rogers; stepdaughters, Vicki M. Wall (Larry) and Deborah L. Moody; stepsons, Michael D. Moody and Timothy M. Moody; sisters, Kathleen Shapiro (Walter) and Jennifer Hasenbuhler; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; and seven step-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father, Frederick Leslie Free, and his mother, Dorothy Bentham Free.

Visitation will be held at Parkway Funeral Home, 1161 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, Mississippi, on June 9, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., with the funeral service immediately following at 12:00 p.m.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at Biloxi National Cemetery, 400 Veterans Avenue, Biloxi, Mississippi, on June 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

Pallbearers will be Maurice Ladd, Todd Gustavsen, Curtis Brown, Finley Swinney, Cass McAuley, and Brad Wall. Honorary pallbearers will be Mike Moody, Willie Swinney, and Bodie McAuley.