Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Fred Garcia Obituary
1946-2008With both sadness and joy in our hearts, Fred Garcia (age 61) of Gulf Breeze passed away on Friday morning August 29, 2008 from complications of Alzheimer's disease. Fred was diagnosed several years ago with the early onset of Alzheimer's disease. We are saddened knowing we will not be able to physically see him everyday but our hearts are filled with joy knowing he is at peace in heaven. We can only imagine Fred is now playing the sax in Heaven for all our family members that have passed before him.
Fred was a graduate of Catholic High School where he was a star athlete in both baseball and football. Upon graduation, Fred followed his passion for music. He was well known in the Pensacola music circles as a member of such bands as the Scoundrels. His greatest popularity was derived when he began playing with family members Paul and Lucy to create the group "The Garcia's". Fred was an accomplished saxophone player as well as a lead vocalist and conga player.
Fred's spiritual life was a cornerstone of his strength. Through his mission work and retreats, Fred brought the word of God to those he felt needed God's blessing. Fred often went to help with Father Jack Davis's Mission in Chimbote, Peru. At home, his passion for music and his spirituality led him to become choir director of St. Ann's Catholic Church in Gulf Breeze for 20 years. While serving in this position, Fred directed and produced a CD with members of his family and choir entitled "Good Morning Jesus". He also served as the Diocesan Commission for Charismatic Renewal Choir Director for many years.
Fred was preceded in death by his father Freddie Garcia, Sr.
Fred is survived by his mother, Lucille Frances Garcia; his loving wife of 40 years, Edie Garcia; his daughters, Jennifer (Bobby) Haines and Andi Garcia; sons Chris and David; five grandchildren, Jake, Alexa, Emma, Hope Haines and Liam Garcia; his siblings, Paul (Angela) Garcia, Belinda (Tim) Scarbrough, Anthony Garcia, Lucy (Chris) Sennett, Judy(Richard) LaBounty, Carlos (Pam) Garcia; also, 22 nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00PM, at Lewis Funeral Home in Navarre on Sunday August 31, 2008, with the Rosary at 7:30 PM. The funeral will be held at St. Ann's Catholic Church in Gulf Breeze at 10:00AM, Monday, September 1, 2008.
The family wishes that in lieu of flowers contributions be made to either, Father Jack Davis's Mission in Chimbote, Peru, PO Box 717,West Fargo, ND 58078 or The Fred Garcia Scholarship Fund, Pensacola Catholic High, 3043 West Scott Street, Pensacola, FL 32505.
Friends may send condolences and share fond memories with the family at www.lewisfuneralhomes.net
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Fred Garcia
Belinda Scarbrough
October 8, 2008
A special thank you to Chris and Dave,
I wanted to share with you the comfort I felt knowing you were always there with your dad giving him the day to day care he very much needed. The power of God was truly working in your lives because you did it with such love and dedication. You were also so strong for your Mom and sisters. I am sure your Dad is smiling his great smile, so proud of you and thankful God blessed him with you in his life. Only God knows what Fred's life would have been like without all of you in it. Thank you so much for taking care of your Dad. He was an amazing and caring brother! May your lives be filled with peace for the beautiful and unconditional love you gave him. Now we can all take comfort in knowing he is watching over each of us as he always did. The memory of your Dad lives through you, your Mom and sisters as we will always continue to celebrate his life.
I love you all. Aunt Belle
Lucy & Chris Sennett
September 28, 2008
Dear Edie, Jen, Andi, Chris, and Dave,
We love you all very much and our hearts and prayers will always be with you. The little sister in me is brokenhearted, yet how blessed I feel to have had such a sweet and amazing man as my brother. He was and remains one of the greatest inspirations of my life. I am so proud of all of you for keeping Fred at home for all these years surrounded in your love and comfort. Even though we all miss his physical presense, I feel that he is still truly with us and will continue to help us through our lives as before. When we see you all, it is a beautiful way of still having Fred in our lives. Love, Lucy, Chris, & Lola
Jeff Scarbrough
September 27, 2008
Uncle Fred was the greatest uncle of all time. He would always make me laugh TOO MUCH! I will always miss him.
Always the life of the party...
Tim and Bel Scarbrough
September 26, 2008
Edie, Jen, Andi, Chris and Dave
Words cannot express our saddness. Fred was our brother, friend, mentor and inspiration. He will always live in our hearts but even more so when we are with you. We love you! Bel and Tim
Janet and Chip Wood
September 25, 2008
My life has been truly blessed to have Fred as my brother in law. Although we will miss his presence, his love, kindness and grace will always be with us.
Love Always, Janet and Chip
Ruth Caillouette
September 24, 2008
Dear Edie & family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. I was sorry to hear about Fred, he was one great guy.Ruth & Ron
Stephanie Ferlita
September 23, 2008
He was a dad to all of us. His smile and laugh will be deeply missed.
Carlos&Pam Garcia
September 22, 2008
Edie,Jenn,Andi,Chris and Dave,
Our heartfelt prayers and love go out to you all.
What a GREAT example Fred has been to me
throughout my entire life.
Thank you brother. "Bless Your Heart"
With love,
Carlos & Pam Garcia
Jill Riffenburg
September 9, 2008
I, too have been one of the many fans, dating back to the Tastee Freeze. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Fred, thanks for the memories.
September 8, 2008
ONCE AGAIN IN ONE CORD ...
OUR JOURNEY KEEPS GOING...
UNITED IN SPIRIT...
IN GOD'S
ETERNALOVE....
Jossy Leon
September 7, 2008
All our prayers are with you Edith and your family..I remember Fred when I was little back in Peru..He was a kind a very generous man..he will be greatly missed..We love you very much
Jossy, Larry, Ed and Lauren
Bonnie Mead
September 7, 2008
Dear Judy and family,
We were so sorry to hear about Fred. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you now and always.
Sincerely,
Carl and Bonnie (Dorman) Mead
Andrea (Schindler) Mackey
September 5, 2008
Condolences to the Garcia Family...
Fred will be greatly missed!! I remember "following" the Garcia's around Pensacola and Pensacola Beach (The Embers, The Shell and Holiday Inn P-Beach). I loved when Fred played the Sax --- I remember dancing by myself on the dance floor -- like the music was my partner... sure miss that music!!
Jose Marquez
September 5, 2008
Paul and Lucy this is Jose. I'm in GA but I heard about Freddie. I know that he is Heaven smiling back at us. My prayers are with all of your family..God Bless You Jose Marquez.
Debbie Owens (Brasher)
September 5, 2008
Dear Andi & family, I am very sorry for your lost. I remember hearing your dad play at the Board Walk. We have such good memories. You & your family are in my prayers and thoughts.
DCCR
September 5, 2008
To Edie and the entire Garcia Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Fred will forever be remembered in our hearts. All the years of serving the LORD leading the Music Ministry at our Charismatic Conferences. He not only was gifted but most annointed. Matthew 28:20 "I am with you always"
Deborah Rosique
September 4, 2008
So sorry for your loss. I saw Fred about a week before he passed. I lost my brother last year at the age of 58. It's a comfort knowing that they are no longer in any pain and that we will see them again one day. God bless.
Tammy Dickie
September 4, 2008
Our sincere sympathy is sent to Belinda, Tim, Jeffrey, Ashley and the entire Garcia family and friends for their resent loss of their loving brother. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Karen Stone
September 3, 2008
Lucy, Paul & Family,
I just received word of Fred's passing and even though I am in Lakeland now you are ALL very much in my heart. I miss you terribly & remember from the Kings Inn to El Palacio's to Nolans we always seemed to follow each other around. The Garcia's & The Cadillacs were known as the Class acts of the Gulf Coast. Please give my condolences to ALL & know that you are in my prayers. Fred will be GREATLY missed! I know that he is smiling down on us in his musical way & telling us he is now at peace & in a much greater place! I love & miss you all...
Daniel Everman
September 3, 2008
Papa Fred gave me my first chance to play music when I was a seventeen year old aspiring drummer. Fred mentored me in The Scoundrels and I have always felt a great debt to him for that. He was always genuinely concerned for everyone's well-being. I am proud to have had time with him. A unique, much-loved person has gone to his reward.
David Dorman
September 3, 2008
I am so very saddened by Fred's death. He was a wonderful person, musician and was very helpful to me when I played music with him. God bless you all. I know Fred is with Jesus.
Sincerely,
John Nanni
September 2, 2008
Fred Garcia is an inspiration to me-a very good person who cared for people in a tangible way. He consistently showed respect and dignity to all and reflected the love of God with his genuine giving spirit. He played the sax like an angel on earth touching us with the emotion of his music, and now, is no doubt in the midst of the brass section of heaven. My heart and prayers go out to ALL of Fred's graceful and resilient family at this time of loss. With love, John Nanni, Franklin, TN.
Sidney Sharp
September 2, 2008
Thank you for the great, sun & fun filled days of music all over town, may you rest in peace Freddie and condolences to the Garcia family.
Bob Caristi
September 2, 2008
Life is but a stopping place,
a pause in what's to be,
A resting place along the road,
to sweet eternity.
We all have different journeys,
different paths along the way,
We all were meant to learn some things,
but never meant to stay...
Our destination is a place,
far greater than we know.
For some the journey's quicker,
for some the journey's slow.
And when the journey finally ends,
we'll claim a great reward,
And find an everlasting peace,
together with the Lord.
We enjoyed the music of the Scoundrels and the Garcias. Rest in peace friend.
Jimmy Clark
September 2, 2008
It was a pleasure knowing Freddie as a fellow musician and especially as a friend, He will be truly missed.We'll see you on the other side my friend.
melody gardner owens
September 2, 2008
Remembering Freddy made me realize I have memories of him from a pretty young age (he was pretty young, too). From the Tastee-Freez in Gulf Breeze, the Scoundels, the Garcias...gosh! He cared about all who were around him, especially the kids.
I haven't seen him in years, but today, there is an empty place in my heart. I am thankful that I have such wonderful memories of an extraordinary person.
God bless you all! May the words you read and hear in the coming days give you comfort.
Brunie Emmanuel
September 2, 2008
My love and condolences to Edie and all the extended Garcia Family at Fred's passing. He was a Friend and inspiration of Faith & Love.
amber millican
September 2, 2008
Dear Andi and family,
I can only say what everyone else has already said ,that I am truly sad for your loss. Your dad was a wonderful person. My heart is with you all.
amber millican
Chris Hughes
September 1, 2008
To many people Mr. Garcia was well known for his musical abilities but to me Mr.Gacia was a amzing father , husband and most of all friend . Mr. Garcia to me was always Coach Garcia . Him and my father coached little league baseball together . With that were many fond memories . Now both coach Garcia and my father have passed and I know they will have plenty to catch up on . To David and Chris I know your going to get this from everybody but its a hard time but you got to realize his in a better place with no pain and able to watch over you and guide and make things better for you .
Orestes Leon
September 1, 2008
Dear Edie and Family, to the Garcia Family . Our Lord will have another angel singing in heaven. He touched so many us. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Love
Nydia, Tito, Bucky, Jossy, Eduardo and Luz Leon. (Daphne, AL)
Michelle Brasher
September 1, 2008
Dear Andi & Family,
Many, fond memories fill my thoughts now of times spent with your family. Especially the times at Quietwater Beach Boardwalk with Fred playing away under the "shell", how he celebrated Robin's life with his talented song, and celebrating with Fred at Andi's college graduation to name a few. I only wish I could have physically been there for you all now. You are and will remain in my thoughts as it is our turn to celebrate Fred. My love to you all!
Simone Simoneaux-Lawson
September 1, 2008
To the Garcia family,
I am so sorry Ted and I couldn't be with you this morning.
I want you to know that I have included a little memorial in honor of Freddie on our PCSH Class of '65 Website. Here is the link: www.geocities.com/pchs1965class
I would like to include a picture of Freddie if you can email one to me or I could schedule picking it up from you to post in this Online memorial. Thank you, and God bless you all.
Simone 456-1504
Carmen Puente
September 1, 2008
May GOD bless you and your entire family. I will never forget Fred, on his trips to Peru, taking care packages to poor families in Chimbote, his caring, music and his prayers make him shine like an Angel.
and now he shines from heaven.
Bill Zimmern
September 1, 2008
To the whole family of Garcia's who so loved and cared for Fred in his declining past few years I send my sympathy. I know how much you loved him. He was a great guy and I am privileged to have known him.
Papa Don Schroeder
September 1, 2008
I am so sorry I was physically unable to be with you all today. In my quiet time this morning, I did ask our Lord to comfort you, as only He can. It is such a blessing to know that Fred is at home with Jesus where there is no more pain and suffering. All of us that know him as Lord will join Fred soon. What a day that will be!
Fannie G Quesada
September 1, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Garcia family.
Karin (Aumen) Thomas
September 1, 2008
Dear Edie and Family, I remember when Edie met Freddie and was so excited. You were at my wedding shower pregnant with your first child and were so happy. Freddie and his music will be missed.
Tim Humphreys
September 1, 2008
To Paul, Lucy, and all of Fred's Family and Loved ones, I am sad to hear of Fred's passing, we all know that Fred is now where we all hope to be, and we can look forward to joining him, thoughts and prayers. Thanks for the great songs and memories.
Susan Silverstein
September 1, 2008
Dear Edie, may the constant love of caring friends soften your sadness. May cherished memories bring you moments of comfort and may lasting peace surround your heart. GOD bless you.
Margaret (Peggy) Mendoza
September 1, 2008
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Rick and Donna Redmon
September 1, 2008
Our condolences. My time spent performing in the"Garcia's" is a great memory. The times I spent "getting schooled up"by Fred- working on musical parts and in the studio are again fond memories. His outlook on life and demeanor-I'm sure influenced more and more by his faith - inspired me, and have helped me in dealing with issues in my life. Paul and Lucie, Donna and I speak of you fondly quite often. To his immediate family -your dad/husband was a great influence on a large number of people through his faith and talents. We all lose with his passing.
kim jones
September 1, 2008
Our prayers are with the family today. I will never forget hearing Good Morning Jesus at my first DCCR conference at UWF. Fred poured his heart out to the Lord and now the Lord has truly taken Fred to his most sacred heart. Judy and Richard, this just shows you how small of a town Pensacola is and we still do not know how close we are to each others family. Wish we could have been with you today, but Gustav has us in the house. Love to the children also. Be Blessed in HIM! Kim Jones. St Paul Catholic School
Bob & RoseAnn Parker
September 1, 2008
Today the angels cry for us because we will no longer see Freds smile,hear his laughter or feel his loving arms. But we find peace and comfort in knowing and having him in our life and there for the angels are now smiling. All our love, Bob and RoseAnn Parker
Martha Tringas
September 1, 2008
Dear Andi and Family,
So sorry to hear about your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Sincerely Martha Tringas(First Steps Dance Studio Teacher)
Joy Jackson
September 1, 2008
Dear Judy & Family,
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Joy (Humphreys) & David Jackson
Sarah Rose Halstead
Kathy (Lipham) Tourison
September 1, 2008
Dear Mrs. Garcia, Edie and Bell-
I was so sorry to heard of Freddie's passing. Growing up, y'all were such a nice family and I remember Freddy saying "life is what you make it". For being Bell's older brother, he was very kind and tolerent of her friend.
To all of the Garcia's, take care!
Skip Banfell
August 31, 2008
To Edie, Jennifer, Andi, Chris, David, Anthony & Lucy,
I will keep Fred and all of you in my prayers and thoughts during this time.
Simone Simoneaux-Lawson
August 31, 2008
To all the Garcia Family,
Our hearts and prayers are with you. We love Freddy and miss him.
We pray that you will all be blessed with the peace and joy that only God can give.
Simone & Ted Lawson
ramona stoeter
August 31, 2008
Lucy our prayers are w/you and yours we'll pray for peace of mind love charles & ramona stoeter
MARALYN RANDALL
August 31, 2008
dear edie, i know what you are going through. i lost my dad and ex hubby with alzheimers just recently. as i remember, you are a beautiful christian with strong faith and i know GOD IS WITH YOU IN A SPECIAL WAY RIGHT NOW...and like the obituary says...FRED IS IN HEAVEN AND PLAYING THE SAX, I BELIEVE THIS WITH ALL OF MY HEART. I LOVE YOU EDIE. MARALYN RANDALL
Nikki Hicks
August 31, 2008
To the Garcia family, we are saddened by your loss. We know how difficult this time is for your family. Take peace in knowing he is with his creator. I will always remember him in Equador, playing with the children and leading us in songs of joy.
Love,
Nikki (Thompson) Hick, and family
Louise G. O'Bannon
August 31, 2008
To my co-worker, and my friend Edie and to the entire Garcia family, you all have my symphathy, may Jesus give you all peace and I am deeply saddened by the loss of Fred but he is in the arms of our Lord.
Joyce Aldridge
August 31, 2008
I am sorry about Fred's passing. I knew him through Lucy Garcia when Lucy was getting her bachelor's degree at The University of West Florida. I worked for the Whitman Center for Public Service. I also loved hearing the band play and Lucy singing.
I send all of you sympathy and blessings to all. May GOD bless and keep you.
Margit McCarthy
August 31, 2008
I was saddened to hear of Fred's death. I used to listen to the Garcia's when I lived in Pensacola. I especially remember Fred through the Catholic Charismatic Renewal. May God comfort his family and friends who grieve his loss. Heaven has a new saint with a bright smile and a gift for music. Maybe he'll teach the angels some new songs.
Jo-Anne Dorman
August 31, 2008
My heart goes out to you at this time and the days ahead. I was shocked to read about Fred today. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts are with you.
BJ HALL
August 31, 2008
I WAS ONE OF YOUR CASTLE LOUNGE LISTENERS.. MY FAVORITE WAS DELTA DAWN..
I HEARD YA'LL ALL OVER DOWN EVEN WHEN YOU WHERE THE SCOUNDREL'S AND SANDPIPER'S..MY HEART GOES OUT TO THE FAMILY.
MAY HE REST IN PEACE..
richard paris
August 31, 2008
to all the garcia family he will be deeply missed from my family to yours always our deepest sympathy
the paris family
Jane Clapp
August 31, 2008
So sorry to hearing of Freddie's passing. He was much too young to die. I always enjoyed listening to The Garcias at El Palacio's or any other club and at wedding receptions. You all don't know me but I was one of The Garcias many fans.
God bless all of you.
Susan LaBerge
August 31, 2008
To Edie & family: I read the news of Fred with tears and also joy that he is with the Lord. May you find peace and comfort in that he is no longer suffering such a debilitating illness.
Will never forget the presence of God felt through his music at St. Ann's.
Beth Bailey
August 31, 2008
So saddened by your loss. I spent many nights at the National Guard Armory listening to the Scoundrels. They had sooo many fans and were well respected by such popular groups as ? Mark and the Mysterians, The Gentrys, David and the Giants, to name a few. Thanks Freddie for sharing your music with me in the best years of my life
John Glassman
August 31, 2008
I was shocked and saddened to learn of Fred's death. I grew up listening to Fred and his family play music. It is truely a sad day.
Judy Gaither Antczak
August 31, 2008
Freddy was too young - God must've needed musical talent in the Heavenly Band ...
So many memories of listening and dancing to the Garcia's, mostly at The Embers.
my sincere condolences to all of Fred's family
Mike & Terry Thompson
August 31, 2008
We hope the thoughts & prayers of family and friends will help all of you at this time. May God bless you.
W Roberts
August 31, 2008
To the Garcia family; I am deeply saddened by the loss of Fred. I will never forget his passion and love for his family, music and his love for God.
My sincere condolences, may he rest forever in peace.
Sincerely,
Bill
Showing 1 - 67 of 67 results
Make a Donation
in Fred Garcia's name
Memorial Events
for Fred Garcia
How to support Fred's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Fred Garcia's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
