S.G. Fred Frederick

S. G. “Fred” Frederick Jr., 94, passed away on January 7, 2026. He was born on February 4, 1931.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Betty Anne Frederick; his children, Cynthia Frederick, F. Craig Frederick Sr. (Helen), Christopher Frederick (Karen), and Jeff Frederick (Janell); and his grandchildren, F. Craig Frederick Jr. (Kelsey), Allison Frederick (RJ), Samantha Frederick, Hunter Frederick, Brooke Frederick, Jenna Frederick, Jackson Frederick, Jayci Frederick, and Jillian Frederick. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Harlan, McKinnley, Rhett, and Levi.

Born and raised in Coldwater, Michigan, Fred attended Michigan State University before enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. Following an honorable discharge as a sergeant, he settled in Hyattsville, Maryland, where he developed an interest in the automotive industry—first as a mechanic and later as a salesman. While working at Lustine Chevrolet, Fred met Betty Anne Jackson, a student at the University of Maryland. They married in 1956 and made their home in Laurel, Maryland.

In 1959, Fred opened a DeSoto-Plymouth dealership that would later become Fred Frederick Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, which continues to operate today. Fred and Betty Anne raised their four children while becoming deeply involved in numerous local organizations and civic causes.

Over his 94 years, Fred touched countless lives—friends, employees, customers, and associates alike. His achievements and recognitions were many. Among them, he was named Time Magazine Dealer of the Year in 1995, Prince George’s County Civic Federation Man of the Year, Prince George’s County Journal Man of the Year, and recipient of the 1999 Northwood University Dealer Education Award.

Fred’s memberships and leadership roles reflected his deep commitment to community, education, and service. These included the Hyattsville and Laurel Lions Clubs; Hyattsville and Laurel Chambers of Commerce (President); Laurel Board of Trade (Chairman); University of Maryland Terrapin Club (President); University of Maryland M Club; University of Maryland Education Foundation; Governor’s Executive Advisory Board; Laurel Federal Savings Board; Citizens Financial Board; Columbia Country Club; Greater Laurel Hospital Board (Chairman); Chrysler National Dealer Council (Chairman); Republican Senatorial Inner Circle; and the Washington Auto Show Board (Chairman).

Fred and Betty Anne shared a lifelong passion for the University of Maryland, serving as football and basketball season ticket holders and donors for more than 60 years. Fred also held a deep affection for Old Town Laurel, which he supported through sustained activism and leadership.

While family was central to their lives, Fred and Betty Anne also fostered enduring friendships and joyful traditions. From the Kentucky Derby and Fourth of July celebrations to ACC tailgates, the Fredericks brought people together and made every occasion memorable.

Fred Frederick was a principled son, brother, husband, father, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. His commitment and loyalty were unsurpassed and will endure through the legacy established by the Frederick Family Foundation. While he will be deeply missed, his influence, stories, memories, and life philosophies will remain with all who knew him.

Visitation will be held at Donaldson Funeral Home, P.A. 313 Talbott Avenue Laurel, Maryland 20707 Friday, January 16th 6-9pm

Graveside Service Saturday, January 17th 11am Ivy Hill Cemetery

Memorial Reception will be held at the Maryland Club, Xfinity Arena, University of Maryland, College Park Saturday January 17th 1-4pm