Frederick Battaglia Jr.

Frederick Samuel ("Sam") Battaglia, Jr. of Durham, NC, a devoted outdoorsman, enthusiastic traveler, and respected member of the North Carolina legal community, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025 at the age of 69 after a short illness. Fred (Sam) was preceded in death by his parents Frederick Samuel Battaglia, Sr. and Norma Fulp.

Born with a deep appreciation for nature, Fred (Sam) spent countless hours exploring the wilderness, whether hunting in the quiet woods or hiking through national parks and scenic trails. His love for the outdoors was matched only by his commitment to service. He volunteered regularly at Fort Niagara and at Flaming Gorge in Ashley National Forest in Utah, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with visitors and helping preserve the natural beauty he cherished.

Professionally, Fred (Sam) dedicated 30 years to the practice of law in Durham, NC, and the surrounding area, earning a reputation for integrity, wisdom, and fairness. His distinguished career culminated in his service as a judge, where he presided with compassion and a steadfast commitment to justice. After retirement, he continued to mentor young people and remained engaged in the Durham and Granville County, NC, and Niagara Falls, NY, communities.

Fred (Sam) was also an avid US and international traveler, always seeking new landscapes and cultures to explore. Whether trekking through national parks or visiting historic sites, he embraced each journey with curiosity and joy. On his most recent trip to Sicily in May 2025, Fred (Sam) walked the streets of Trabia Sicily and Valledolmo Sicily where his great-grandparents once lived, soaking in the atmosphere and architecture that shaped their lives plus connected with welcoming locals who shared stories, traditions, and even family connections or insights into his Sicilian heritage.

He is survived by his son Lowell (daughter-in-law Suzanne) Dyer and three grandchildren, Camille, Madeleine and Ambrose of Greenwich, CT; his daughter Mandy Battaglia (son-in-law Brandon Powell) of Leland, NC; siblings Cathy Thomas of Niagara Falls, NY, Brenda (brother-in-law Joe) Rauscher of Parma, OH, Paul (sister-in-law Pam) Battaglia of Graham, NC, Christine Graham of North Port, FL, and Noreen Battaglia of Clyde, NC; 13 nieces/nephews; and several great nieces/nephews.

Fred (Sam) will be greatly remembered for his generosity, adventurous spirit, and unwavering love and dedication to his friends and family.

A celebration of life will be held at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church (810 W. Chapel Hill Street, Durham, NC 27701) on Thursday December 11, 2025 at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tar River Land Conservancy, 121 N Main Street (PO BOX 1161), Louisburg, NC 27549 or by phone at (919) 496-5902.

The family would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the doctors, nurses, and the entire healthcare staff of the Buffalo Mercy Hospital ICU for the care, compassion, and grace they demonstrated to Fred (Sam) and family during his stay.