Fred Thomas Lovette, Sr.

Fred Thomas Lovette Sr., 88, passed away peacefully at his home in DeLand, Florida, on August 26, 2026.

Fred was born on July 20, 1938, in Rockingham, North Carolina, to loving parents Edker and Gladys Lovette. He was the eldest of five children.

Fred was predeceased by his beloved wife of 63 years, Shelby Lovette, in 2021. Together, they shared a lifetime of love, family, and memories.

Fred worked for Amtrak for more than 30 years. Outside of work, he enjoyed fishing, watching sports, and, most of all, spending time with the people he loved. He followed his favorite teams with great enthusiasm and was especially passionate about his Buffalo Bills. Whenever the Bills were playing, you could always count on Fred to enthusiastically shout, “BUFFALO!”

Fred will be remembered for his love of family, his passion for sports, and the joy he found in the simple moments spent with those closest to him. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will be cherished by his family and friends.

Fred is survived by his children, son Fred Lovette Jr. (Kellye) of Georgia, daughters Frances Adams (Jerry), Patsy Dorph (Bruce), and Debbie Newell (Paul) all of Florida. Grandchildren Lindsey Sneed (Jake), Fred Lovette III (Kyia), Lesley Swaim (Josh), Theresa Wallace (Cody), Stacey Guffey (Blake), Jennifer Kennerson (Bruce), Ross Dorph (Brittney), Katie Paquette, and Kristen Paquette; thirteen great-grandchildren, and his sister, Linda Pittman.

We would like to thank Vitas Hospice Care and First Light Home Care for the great care they provided our father over the last year.

A celebration of life for Fred will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 11:00am at Lankford Funeral Home in Deland, Florida.