Frederick Kornegay

Born on June 20, 1935, in Mount Olive, North Carolina, Fred lived a full and meaningful life devoted to family, community, and the simple joys that made each day special.

Fred attended New Hanover High School and went on to serve his country in the United States Air Force and later in the Army National Guard, carrying with him a lifelong sense of honor and service.

Early in his career, Fred became a licensed baker in Maryland, where he ran a bakery and took pride in his craft. Upon returning to North Carolina, he built a long and respected career as a produce manager with Lowes Foods, where he was known for his kindness, knowledge, and the genuine connections he made with coworkers and customers.

Known lovingly as “Papa Fred” by his family, he had a great sense of humor, an unforgettable laugh, and an affable nature that drew people to him. He loved spending time with friends at Chick-fil-A; dancing and listening to classic country music (especially Hank Williams Jr.); and being surrounded by the people he loved most.

Fred was preceded in death by his mother, Sallie Mae Garner; father, DeLeon Kornegay; sisters Doris Bordeaux and Ruth Bowens; and brothers Paul, Ernest, Lawrence, Leo, and Russell Kornegay.

He is survived by his daughters, Lauri Kornegay and Valarie Kornegay; grandchildren, Jeremy Williams (and his wife Sarah), Josh Williams (and his wife Jenna), Mandi Stanley, and AJ Stanley; great-grandchildren, Alice, June, Charlie, Luke, and another great-granddaughter on the way; niece, Kendra Malpass; nephew, Dougal Bordeaux; and numerous friends who were like family.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, December 19th, at 2:00 p.m. at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 1155 Shipyard Boulevard, Wilmington, NC 28412. A celebration of life will follow in the coming months, with the date to be announced.

Papa Fred’s humor, warm laugh, and distinctive way of ending sentences with “…and everything…” were part of the joyful spirit his family and friends cherished. Those who knew him will carry those memories and his loving presence with them always.