Tommy James Frederick

Mr. Tommy James Frederick Jr., beloved husband, brother, and uncle, peacefully passed from this life on October 20, 2024, at the age of 75 in the comfort of his home. Born in Piggott on November 20, 1948, Tommy graduated from Piggott High School in 1966. He attended college and trade school for a year and a half before moving to Texas and pursuing a career in the sanitation industry, or as he called it "in the trash business".

Throughout his three-decade-long career in the trash business, Tommy found fulfillment as a dispatcher with Duncan Disposal of Midland, Texas, before retiring gracefully. On October 16, 1970, he exchanged vows with his cherished bride, Rebecca "Becky" Frederick, who shared in his joys and sorrows throughout a blissful marriage. Tommy was devoted member of the Church of Christ, finding comfort and community in his faith.

A man of simple pleasures, Tommy found solace in the harmony of music and the camaraderie of sports. As an ardent St. Louis Cardinals fan, he dedicated countless hours to cheering on his favorite team. He loved to watch football and spent many weekends watching his favorite college and NFL teams on television. His true passion lay in playing the guitar, singing, and hosting karaoke in the "Fred Shed" behind his home, where he celebrated his love for gospel, country Western, and classic rock music, with a special fondness for Elvis Presley tunes.

Tommy is survived by his loving bride of 54 years, Becky; brothers, ZJ Mayberry of Biloxi, Mississippi and Max Mayberry of Piggott; special niece and nephew (who were like children to Tommy and Becky), Stacie (John) Ashcraft of Paragould and Shawn (Feliz Abalos) DeWitt of Odessa, Texas; special great nephews, Jacob DeWitt of Arlington, Texas and Josh Ashcraft of Paragould; and many cousins, nephews, and nieces. He is preceded in death by his parents, Tommy "Tom" James Frederick, Sr. and Ruth Sells Prine; brothers, Herb, Jack, and Pete Frederick; sisters, Ruth Busby and Joyce Dudley; and cousin, who was like a brother, Ronnie Sells.

A memorial service is scheduled to honor and celebrate Tommy's life at Heath Funeral Home on October 28, 2024, at 6:00 pm with Dean Tripp officiating. Family, friends, and all those touched by Tommy's kindness are invited to join in paying their respects and reminiscing about the memories shared with a beloved friend. A time of visitation will follow the service. Honorary pallbearers are Tom Wiley, Hunter Wiley, and Bill Hawkins. In his memory, the family kindly requests that memorials be made to Samaritan's Purse or Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, causes close to Tommy's heart.

In his memory, let us hold Tommy close to our hearts, remembering him for the love, laughter, and music that he brought into our lives. May his legacy live on in the joyful moments we shared and the music that continues to play in our souls.