Frederick Alfred Raleigh

Frederick Alfred Raleigh, affectionately known as Fred, passed away on December 1, 2024, in Mason Ohio. He was born on February 24,1940, in Brownsville, Pennsylvania, and lived a life marked by service, family, and a genuine passion for connection with others.

Fred proudly served in the United States Navy as a Radarman, first on the USS Hunt (DD-674) from 1957 to 1959 and then on the USS Laffey (DD-724) from 1960 to 1961. Serving aboard ship stoked in him a curiosity about the world’s cultures, and he spoke often of the excitement he felt as a young man to be visiting such exotic locations as Cuba and the Mediterranean. His military service instilled in him a sense of duty and pride that he carried throughout his life. His commitment to his shipmates was carried on in later years, through his participation in their yearly reunions, where, as a volunteer, he would contribute to the ongoing repairs and upkeep of the USS Laffey as a historic site, and he and his fellow servicemen would reminisce about their shared experiences.

On May 9, 1964, Fred married his beloved wife, Phyllis (nee Hoffmann), in St. Peters Church in Brownsville, PA. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love and adventures, raising a family that brought him immense pride, first in Cleveland, OH, and later moving the family to Medina, OH in 1976. From small-town beginnings, Fred built a successful career, first as a purchasing agent, and later as a sales representative, in the manufacturing industry. He was proud to achieve his Bachelor’s degree from Dyke College in Cleveland, OH in 1978. In retirement, he traveled the world with Phyllis, visiting destinations such as China, Italy, Greece, and Ireland, and they cherished the moments spent on Caribbean cruises together.

He was deeply proud of his Italian heritage, devoting time to studying the culture, language, and of course, the culinary delights associated with it. An avid reader, and self educated in the world of finance, Fred shared his financial knowledge and investment skills with his family, instilling in them the importance of education and sound financial practices. In later years, he and Phyllis moved to Mason, OH to be closer to family. Known for his witty sense of humor, Fred had a remarkable ability to connect with others. He enjoyed meeting new people, engaging in meaningful conversations, and finding common ground. Friends and family will remember him as a good listener who genuinely cared about the individuals he interacted with.

Fred is survived by his loving wife, Phyllis; his children, Jennifer Ehrler, Fred (Chandrah) Raleigh, Carol Raleigh, and Erick Raleigh; his grandchildren, Lauren Clark, Jenna Ehrler, Kyler Raleigh, and Sierra Raleigh; his great-granddaughter, Kate Clark; his sister-in-law, Shirley Raleigh; and many other cherished family members and friends.

He is preceded in death by his brother, Ronald Raleigh.

Visitation for Fred will take place on December 10, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Mueller Funeral Home located at 6791 Tylersville Rd, Mason, OH. This will be followed by a Prayer Service from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. A Graveside Service will be held on December 11, 2024, at 10:00 AM at the Dayton National Cemetery, located at 4400 West Third Street, Dayton, OH.

Fred Raleigh will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his love for travel, his cultural interests, and his ability to light up a room with his humor. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched throughout his life.