Frederic L. Eyester

Frederic L. Eyester, 87, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, at Vassar Brothers Medical Center in Poughkeepsie, NY. Born on April 2, 1938, to Luther and Ellen (Bange) Eyester, Fred grew up in Farmingdale, NY, where his lifelong love of cars and knack for fixing things began.
In the years that followed, Fred lived with his wife and family in California and New Mexico, before settling back on Long Island in the late 1970s, in Coram, NY. In the mid-1990s, he and his beloved wife Catherine moved to Riverhead, NY, where they happily made their home for many years. After Catherine's passing in 2022, Fred relocated to Hyde Park, NY, to be nearer to his daughter, Susan.
Fred faced his illness with the same courage, determination and optimism that defined his life. He met each challenge with hope and strength, always believing in better tomorrows.
A proud graduate of Weldon E. Howitt High School's Class of 1957, Fred began his career working alongside his father at the family's garage in Farmingdale, where he learned not only the art of auto mechanics but also the values of honesty, hard work and helping others. In the early 1970s, while living in California, he proudly served as a Sheriff Reserve in San Diego, bringing his steady hand and commitment to community safety. Known for being able to fix just about anything, Fred was always the first to offer advice or lend a hand-especially when it came to cars.
Fred spent much of his life as a Master Mechanic before beginning a second career as a Public Safety Officer at Long Island University, first at the Southampton campus and later at the C.W. Post campus in Brookville. Whether repairing engines or ensuring the safety of students and staff, Fred brought the same steady kindness and dedication to every task.
He is survived by his loving children Fred, David (Nina Vong), and Susan (Jeff Clyburn) Spellman; his beloved grandsons Thomas Eyester, James Eyester, and Liam Spellman; his sisters Louise and Nancy, and step-sister Patty, with whom he shared countless memories. Fred is reunited in peace with his beloved wife of 64 years, Catherine Eyester; his sons, Thomas (Sergia Coffey) and Michael; his brothers, Karl, Bobby, Richie, and Ronnie; step-sister Helen; and step-brother Charlie.
Fred's hands, skilled in repairing what was broken, were just as capable of creating comfort and offering a warm embrace. His generosity, humor and quiet strength left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. Filled with kindness, perseverance and optimism, Fred's legacy reminds us that a good life is not measured by years, but by the lives we touch and the love we share. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered as a loving father, husband, grandfather, brother and friend, a man who could fix anything and always found a way to get things done.
Fred joined the United Methodist Church not long after moving to Hyde Park. In the last few years of his life, it became a true joy to him. He loved attending Sunday services. He especially cherished the music and the warmth of his church family. The weekly men's group breakfasts at the diner brought him so much comfort and camaraderie. It feels fitting to celebrate his life in the place that brought him such a true sense of home.
A service will be held at 1 PM, Wednesday January 14th at the United Methodist Church of Hyde Park, 1 Church Street, Hyde Park. Coffee, cookies, and light refreshments will follow from 2–3 PM.
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To send an online condolence or for directions, please visit Fred's obituary page at www.sweetsfuneralhome.com.