Deborah J. Fredo

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Deborah J. Fredo (referred to by old friends as Debbie), a beloved resident of Ocean Pines, Maryland, who peacefully left us on August 5, 2025, at the Pam and Macky Stansell House of Coastal Hospice. Deborah was born on November 14, 1949, in Parkville, Maryland, to the late Frances H. Lucas and Clara (Ritter) Lucas.
She graduated from Perry Hall High School, Class of 1967, and pursued further studies at the University of Baltimore. Her dedication to helping others led her to nursing in her later years, where she earned her LPN from York County School of Technology in York, Pennsylvania. Her 30-year nursing career took her to many different places, but she often spoke most fondly of her experiences as a psychiatric nurse at Johns Hopkins Hospital.
After moving to Ocean Pines, she continued her work at Berlin Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and various other care facilities, where her compassion and commitment touched many lives. Deborah had an uncanny talent for diagnosing people simply by listening to their symptoms-her instincts were remarkably sharp. She was also exceptionally knowledgeable about pharmaceuticals and often served as a go-to source of information for colleagues, friends, and family alike.
Although she was never a smoker, in January 2025 she was diagnosed with what became a rapidly progressive form of interstitial lung disease (ILD)a condition she faced with strength and dignity.
She is survived by her beloved companion of 19 years, Robert Grant; her daughter Kristie Kenney and her husband Danny Kenney; her son Brad Cox and his wife Lisa Cox; and her cherished granddaughter Samantha Cox. Deborah's love and devotion to her family were boundless.
An avid animal lover, Deborah's home was warmed by her dog Bella and her treasured house rabbits. She was also fond of the squirrels in her yard. Her empathy extended beyond people to all living creatures, reflecting a deep and gentle spirit. Deborah was known for her sharp wit and steadfast principles, but she was also very kind and considerate with those she cared about. She never hesitated to stand firm in her beliefs, and her passionate nature and fearless voice enriched every conversation.
A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at 2:00 PM, at The Burbage Funeral Home, 108 Williams St, Berlin, MD 21811. A Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 2:00. Entombment will follow at Granite Memorial Mausoleum, 12840 Worcester Hwy, (US Rt 113) Bishopville, MD 21813. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home. In Lieu of Flowers, please consider donating in Deborah's memory to: Worcester County Humane Society 12330 Eagles Nest Rd, Berlin, MD 21811, or American Lung Association www.lung.org
"Her strength, kindness, and fierce spirit touched many lives. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her." To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Deborah, please visit our Tree Store.