Dr. Terry Frederick

1936 - 2025

Dr. Terry Frederick, 89, renowned architect of the University of Central Florida's much-lauded Computer Science program, died Monday, Dec. 15, 2025.
A father of three, Frederick is survived by Marilyn Frederick, his wife of nearly 69 years; son, John Frederick (Betzy); daughter, Jackie Mueller (Brad); and son, Jeff Frederick (Melinda). His grandchildren include Nathan Mueller, Jocelyn Parrott (Matthew), Zachary Frederick (Kate), Travis Frederick, Logan Frederick (Grace), Jack Frederick (Brittany), Quinton Frederick and Ethan Frederick. His great-grandchildren are Franklin Parrott, Lucas Frederick and Carter Frederick.
Frederick was born in Bicknell, Indiana, on Nov. 22, 1936, to Clifford and Nola Frederick.
He came of age during World War II and developed an affinity for learning and basketball, earning bachelor's and master's degrees from Indiana State University in mathematics, and a Ph.D. in Intelligent Systems from the University of Wisconsin. He held faculty positions at Wisconsin and Purdue University before moving to Orlando in 1975, where he became Chair of the Math department and eventually launched the Computer Science department in 1977. Frederick's leadership led to a program that featured bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees. The Ph.D. in computer science was the institution's first doctoral program, as well as the first computer science doctoral program in the state.
Frederick's vision and acumen helped the computer science program grow significantly in student demand, research partnerships and academic reputation. He was promoted to full professor in 1979 and became one of the first UCF Distinguished Service professors in 1985. He served as director of the Computer Science Research Institute and later held positions as associate dean in the College of Arts and Sciences and was named emeritus professor. He received research funding for various scientific inquiries and published papers and findings on matters of mathematical modeling, computer-related instruction and computer science education.
Frederick was an avid golfer, card player and UCF sports fan. He designed and built his own Frank Lloyd Wright-style home, held various leadership roles in churches, and quietly supported many charitable organizations with his time and treasure in Orlando and in western North Carolina after retirement. He was a notorious jokester who enjoyed teasing his grandchildren, and showed his love for his family members by giving them endearing nicknames. A thoughtful reader of many things, including theology, he was as happy in a deep conversation as he was watching a ballgame, but never happier than with his wife and family.
A celebration of life was held at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, at Providence Presbyterian Church at 2252 Harshaw Road in Murphy, N.C. Pastor David Hina officiated.
In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to the Pregnancy and Parenting Center, P.O. Box 866, Andrews, NC 28901.
You may send tributes to the family at townson-rose.com.
Townson-Rose Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.