Fred Simpson Raedels III

Fred Simpson Raedels III went to live with the Lord on Tuesday, February 1, 2023, he was 86 years old. Fred was living in Scotia Village Retirement Community, Laurinburg, NC. He was born on December 12,1936 in Russellville, Arkansas. Fred is predeceased by his parents Fred Simpson Raedels II and Nina Rebecca Oates Raedels; his sister Mary Nell Tompkins; his wife of 50 years Martha Jane Quinn Raedels.

Fred had an insatiable thirst for learning. He earned bachelor’s degrees in Business and Mechanical Engineering from the University of Arkansas plus a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Vanderbilt University. Fred continued his education, completing post graduate work at the University of Tennessee Space Institute.

Fred proudly served in the United States Air Force as a C-130 pilot. Fred later worked at DuPont, as a mechanical engineer. He wrote software programs which sparked an interest in computing. He became a team leader of a very innovative system, which included production, supply chain and inventory management. This system facilitated top management’s decisions.

Fred is survived by his second wife, Caroll Purgason Raedels. Fred and Caroll have been married nine years.

Fred had two sons, John Mark Raedels and his wife Janet Maguire Raedels, Chris Quinn Raedels and his wife Jill Hagerman Raedels. Fred’s grandchildren include Quinn Raedels, Elizabeth Raedels, Jarod Raedels and Carson-Faye Raedels.

Fred had two stepchildren, Hal J. Purgason and Andrea P. Clark. Fred’s step grandchildren are Justin Purgason, Morgyn Clark, Jaxon Clark, and Piper Davis.

Fred loved traveling and exploring. He traveled extensively around the world, during his Air Force career and personally, after he retired from the military.

Fred had lived on the beaches of Brunswick County. In 2016, Fred and Caroll moved to Scotia Village Retirement Community, Laurinburg.

Fred was kind, generous, and funny. He was a role model, a hero, a provider, husband, father and grandfather. He was larger than life and truly touched the hearts of many people. He loved his family unconditionally.

Caroll was initially attracted to Fred's beautiful smile and his quick wit. He responded, "yeah, a nitwit."

Fred actively participated in the social activities at Scotia Village Retirement Community. He was an elder at Faith Presbyterian Church.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 4, 2023 at 2:00pm at Faith Presbyterian Church, 2220 Elm Ave, Laurinburg, NC 28352.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be made to one of the following charities:

· Faith Presbyterian Church, 2220 Elm Ave, Laurinburg, NC 28352

· Brightspire Foundation (Scotia Village), 2200 Elm Ave, Laurinburg, NC 28352

· Wreaths Across America or 

· American Heart Association

 Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint. 

 Isaiah 40:31

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