Frederick Osborne

1943 - 2025

Frederick Lee Osborne, age 82, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of July 19, 2025, at his home in Clemmons, NC.

Born on January 8, 1943, in Virgie, KY, Frederick was the son of Adam and Madelyn Osborne. He grew up in the mountains of Eastern Kentucky, where he developed a deep appreciation for hard work and resilience. In 1959, while attending a high school game between rival schools, he met Donna Marie Bartley. That chance meeting blossomed into a lifelong partnership grounded in love and shared adventure. They married on August 1, 1964, and spent 51 devoted years together until Donna's passing on January 13, 2016.

Frederick served his country in the U.S. Army Reserves. After completing his education, he earned a master's degree from the University of Cincinnati and embarked on a career as an Industrial Hygienist. His work played a significant role in improving conditions within the textile industry by advancing air quality standards and implementing monitoring programs and process improvements.

Throughout his career, Frederick held positions with several organizations including the City of Cincinnati, Daniel Construction Company, Standard Oil, and Hanes. He later founded his own firm F.L. Osborne & Associates in Clemmons. His entrepreneurial spirit also led him to invest in the Fazoli's restaurant franchise in North Carolina.

In 1984, Frederick and his family settled in Clemmons, NC, where they established their permanent home. Despite frequent relocations earlier in life for career opportunities, Clemmons became their lasting haven.

Frederick was known for his quiet determination and competitive spirit. He had a passion for Kentucky basketball and was a skilled handyman who took pride in home renovations, most notably building an expansive deck that became a central gathering place for family events. Education remained one of his core values throughout life; he believed deeply in lifelong learning and encouraged those around him to pursue knowledge with vigor. He was determined and unwavering in his convictions - approaching challenges with boldness and energy. He inspired those around him to strive for excellence, persevere in the face of obstacles, and to think critically.

He also had a deep affection for animals and often joked that being reincarnated as an Osborne family pet would be the ultimate comfort.

When Donna was diagnosed with ALS, Frederick cared for her throughout her illness with unwavering devotion. After her passing, he often reflected on their life together with gratitude and peace. In 2021, Frederick was diagnosed with dementia. When a previously treated cancer returned in 2024, he chose to forgo further treatment so that he could pass with dignity before his dementia progressed further. In his final months, he expressed peace with this decision and found solace in the life he had lived.

During his last years, Fred was cared for by the Right at Home In-Home Care team, based in Winston-Salem. Their loving care and dedication to ensuring his well-being and comfort allowed him to remain in the home he cherished until the end.

He is survived by his son, Chris Osborne and his wife, Susan of High Point, NC; daughter, Catherine Marie Osborne-Flesch and her husband, Juergen of Hoesbach, Germany; three grandchildren: Jennifer Annie Kelly and her husband Brantley of Walburg, NC; Anna-Sophie Flesch of Passau, Germany; and Thorsten Flesch of Hoesbach, Germany. He is also survived by his sister, Shirley Lusk of Cleveland, TN; brother, Dale Osborne and his wife Teresa of Georgetown, KY; and nieces, Stephanie Osborne of Raleigh, NC; Samantha Harris of Cleveland, TN; Tracy Clay of Versailles, KY; Bernadette Tucker and her husband Graham of Goodlettsville, TN; and Courtney Dugan of Alpharetta, GA.

He was predeceased by his parents, Adam and Madelyn Osborne; brother, Roger Osborne; brother-in-law, Charles Lusk; and sister-in-law, Donna Rose Osborne.

A celebration of Frederick's life is being planned to take place in Kentucky so that his brother and sister may attend.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, Dementia Society of America, or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.