Frederick Spence

On Monday, February 1, 2021 our family circle was broken when the Lord called home our beloved Frederick Albert Spence.  He was born in Norfolk, VA on August 29, 1968 to Albert Spence Jr. and the late Bernice Cuffee Spence.  Frederick was the second eldest of three brothers, Maurice Spence and Troy Spence. He was preceded in death by his mother, Bernice, his maternal grandparents, Lemuel and Casann Cuffee, and his paternal grandparents, Albert Sr. and Vera Spence.

 Frederick graduated from Norview High School in 1987.  Upon graduation Fred served in the United States Armed Forces until receiving a honorable discharge.  He then went on to further his education at Norfolk State University.  Frederick later became a dedicated employee of the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) Local 1248 Gang #76 for 26 years. During his tenure with ILA, Fred served as the Gang Leader/Boss for the last several years until his untimely death.

 Frederick was a relaxed and easy-going fellow, but his presence was felt amongst all who came in contact with him.  His family, friends, and coworkers were blessed to bear witness to the compassion, devotion, and loving spirit Fred displayed throughout his life.  Although his life was cut short, his legacy will forever live on in our hearts.

 Left to cherish Fred’s memory is his father, Albert Spence Jr.; two brothers, Troy Spence and Maurice Spence; his step-son, Tyron Bryant; fiancée, Rakesha “China” Freeman; honorary children, Zya Leonard, Wynter Freeman, and Brooklyn Freeman; niece, Ta’Nya Norman; nephews, Jayden Askew and Dashawn Braxton; honorary sister and brother, Jan Cuffee-Woody (Wayne) and Joseph Christian (Essence); two god-children, Jordyn Christian and Kalillah Melton; two god-brothers, Donald Cuffee (Deanna) and Le’Swane Cuffee-Lewis (Aja); five aunts, Leolious Melton (Frederick), Joyce Cuffee, Barnetta Cuffee-Ferguson, Evangelist Vernetta “Joan” Cuffee-Lewis, Cecelia Cuffee; three uncles, Daniel Cuffee Sr., Rev. Dr. Clarence Cuffee Sr., Jerry “Mack” Spence and a hosts of loving family, friends, and coworkers.

A Homegoing Celebration and viewing will be held at Keith Matthews Funeral Home, 5665 East Virginia Beach Blvd., Norfolk, VA 23502. The viewing will be held on Friday, February 12th from 5pm – 7pm (open to the public).  The funeral will be held Saturday, February  13th at 11 am (family only).

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