Freddie

Tisdale

Freddie Tisdale, a devoted husband, father, brother and accomplished professional, went on to be with the Lord on July 1, 2026 after an extended illness leaving behind a legacy of hard work, faith, and family. Born on September 18, 1941, in Kingstree, South Carolina, to Freddie Allie Tisdale and Ida (Greene) Tisdale, Freddie's early life in the South laid the foundation for a lifetime of dedication and perseverance.

Freddie was a man of many talents and an incredible work ethic. His early career saw him as a horse trainer before he moved into the construction industry, where he contributed to the skyline of America. He was proud to have helped build the Twin Towers in New York City and later worked on the iconic Renaissance Center in Detroit, Michigan.

However, Freddie's true professional calling was on the open road. With over 65 years of trucking experience, Freddie was a proud driver for JEVIC Transportation Inc. with more than 3 million miles driven, and was a titan of the industry. From 2000 to 2024, he served as the President, CEO, and owner-operator of Fat Trucking, Inc. His dedication to his craft was matched only by his commitment to his colleagues, as he was a proud lifelong member of the Owner Operator Independent Driver Association (OOIDA).

On October 11, 1975, Freddie married the love of his life, Antoinette Rockwood. Together, they built a life filled with love and devotion for over 50 years. Freddie was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend who cherished his family above all else. He and Antoinette enjoyed their later years as "snow birds," driving their motor home to spend winters in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. A world traveler at heart, Freddie found joy in the journey as much as the destination.

Freddie's faith was the cornerstone of his life. In 1977, he joined Rossford First Baptist Church in Toledo, Ohio, where he served faithfully as a Trustee. His ministry extended beyond the church walls; he was a vital part of the bus ministry, driving countless children to Sunday School and church services. On the road, he was a witness for Christ, planting seeds of faith and encouraging fellow truck drivers to invite the Lord into their lives.

In his leisure time, Freddie was an active member of his community and various social clubs. He was a founding member and Past President of the Blue Gills Fishing Club and an avid boater. His love for the outdoors and community was further reflected in his memberships with the Toledo Travelers RV Club, the Sankofa Camping Club of Michigan, and the National African American RV Association (NAARVA).

Freddie was preceded in death by his parents, Freddie and Ida Tisdale, and his siblings Daisy Mae, Jasper, Berneatha "Lee", Mildred "Sandra", and Julia Ann.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Antoinette Tisdale; his sister, Alberta; and his children, Elder Dr. Yolanda Dawn Waller (Devoleon), Sheree (George), Jimmie Jr. (Regina), and Jeanette (the late Edward). His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Francisco (Rhea), Fernando (Kim), Desmond (Sarah), Ruth, Marcus, Jimmie III, Carl, Clarissa, and Isaac. He is also survived by 47 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, special cousins Franklin & Andy, godchildren, Vanessa, Jasmine and Sam and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, friends, and his church family.