Frederick L. Willoughby

Frederick Lee Willoughby passed away on August 13, 2024, at his home. Fred, as he was known to everyone, was born on September 7, 1962, in Kansas City, MO. to James, Sr. and Alicetean Willoughby. He was the fourth of five children. He attended Yeager Elementary School, Lincoln Jr. High School, and graduated from Central High School in 1982. During Fred’s childhood years he attended Griddine Temple COGIC, Grace Assembly of God Church and Glad Tidings Assembly of God Church. Later in his adult years he attended Evangelistic Center International Ministries and enjoyed attending the Men’s Sunday School class.

After high school, Fred worked for several companies in the Kansas City area including Truman Medical Center, The City of Kansas City, where he was awarded several Safety Certificates; The Kansas City School District, Denny’s Restaurant, where he earned the KC Food Handlers Certificate, and his side hustle was being a “bootleg” barber until a head injury prevented him from consistent, full time employment.

Fred was known by many as “My Friend Fred”, because he was a pretty laid back and easy-going person. He could often be found hanging with his buddies sitting in their favorite spot in the shade under a tree or at home watching sports or his favorite tv show. He was the comedian of the family, always had a joke, and enjoyed making people laugh whenever he could. He also liked to cook and grill, often putting his special spin on common dishes.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, James and Alicetean Willoughby and his oldest sister, Nadine Matthews.

He is survived by his siblings: James Willoughby, Jr. (Harriett), of Kansas City, MO, sister, Robin Willoughby, of Blue Springs, MO, and Yvetta Sargent (Byron) of Blue Springs, MO; his nephew, Dwayne Matthews (Angelique) of Heath, TX; his nieces: Janae Emerson, Cameshia Tiebout, Ashley Matthews, and Jazmine Matthews and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.