Mr. Raymond E. Freddie

Raymond Edward Freddie, 79, of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2025, following a lengthy illness.

Born January 1, 1946, in Port Arthur, Texas, to Raymond and Elizabeth Freddie, Raymond's life was a testament to leadership, creativity, and service. After graduating from Sacred Heart Catholic High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served with honor during a brief tour of duty. His time in the service fortified in him the deep sense of discipline and duty he had grown up with - qualities that would continue to shape every chapter of his life.

Following the culmination of his military service in Corpus Christi, TX, Raymond embarked on a distinguished career with IBM, entering the Field Managers Training Program. Over the next twenty-five years, his skill, intellect, and natural leadership carried him to success in cities across the country, including Raleigh, North Carolina; Dallas, Texas; San Jose, California; and finally Houston, Texas. He trailblazed through the ranks with integrity and purpose, leaving a legacy of mentorship and innovation that reflected his belief in bringing out the best in others.

Upon retiring from IBM in 1993, Raymond remained in Houston, where he continued to lead - not through titles, but through action and purpose. He elevated his presence becoming an entrepreneur and gave generously of his time and wisdom through organizations such as the NAACP and other community engagements. His service earned him numerous awards and acknowledgements, but his true reward was the growth and success of those whose lives he touched.

A man of many talents, Raymond was equally at home behind a workbench as he was behind a grill. He loved carpentry, cooking, and any occasion that called for family and friends to enjoy each other's company, creating memories by intention. Known for his vibrance and ingenuity, he had a gift for turning ordinary moments into celebrations and challenges into opportunities. If something needed to be built, fixed, or organized, Raymond was the one person people called. He would always find a way to get it done.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents and his eldest child, Tasha (d. 2014). He leaves behind a legacy of love and leadership that continues through his sister, Mary Tezeno [Earl]; his children, Tiffany Banks, Clinton Freddie, and David Freddie; grandchildren, Gabriel Smith, Turner Banks, Aliyah Freddie, Christopher Freddie, and Jaxon Freddie; and his niece and nephew, Evita Tezeno and Earl Tezeno Jr. [Veronica]. Raymond is remembered and celebrated by a host of extended family, friends, and all who were fortunate to know and be impacted by him.

Raymond E. Freddie lived a life defined by purpose, faith, and community. His passionate leadership was not only displayed by his many achievements, but in how he inspired others to believe in themselves, to give, and to celebrate life fully. His legacy endures in every life he touched.

In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions to either organization that was dear to Raymond:

Please identify 'In Honor of Raymond E. Freddie'

NAACP:

https://naacp.org/donate

UNCF:

https://give.uncf.org/site/Donation2?idb=1587707255&13162.donation=form1&df_id=13162&mfc_pref=T&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=brand&utm_content=evergreen&utm_medium=paid&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23101769722&gbraid=0AAAABBABc455gZiyKgrs3nK_MonEMZtLg&gclid=Cj0KCQiAgbnKBhDgARIsAGCDdlex3aRXGbpoPgDbch_vyVlUGtWJs43o8yqmJdDNvR2hiJP95pwTYJMaAnc9EALw_wcB