Fred A. Fawcett

Fred Allen Fawcett, 67, died March 27, 2020 of complications due to congestive heart failure. He was born on September 28, 1952, in Bruceton Mills, WV to parents John and Daisy Fawcett who predeceased him.

Fred was the third of eight children. He was predeceased by Charles, Bill, Betty, John, and Sally. He is survived by adored sisters: Rosemary Zirkle, Broadway, VA, and Peggy McLain, Rochester, NY. He is also survived by a beloved nephew, C. J. Zirkle, Broadway, VA, and niece Keri Jean McLain, Hillsville, VA.

If you ever met Fred Fawcett, your life was likely changed for the better. His smiling, warm, greetings of “Hey! How are you doing?” “We need to talk.” “Need any help?” or the ever popular, “What are you doing…nothing?” endeared him to many.

Despite being born with special needs during a time most children with special needs didn’t get to attend school, Fred did. Fred found a way to learn with the “Fred system.” Fred would refine and perfect his system his entire life. He would use it to every advantage to survive and thrive. Every policeman, fire fighter, downtown Morgantown store owner, physician, nurse, etc. was indoctrinated into the Fred system. Many times, Fred would slow down the busy physician or nurse and cordially say, “We’re going to do this my way…step by step…got it?” He never complained about his multiple medical issues – ever. Fred was quick to say thank you for all kindnesses proffered. He was also quick to apologize if needed.

At age 18, Fred moved to Morgantown. It was quickly apparent Fred needed oversight and assistance with housing and financial accountability. It cannot be underscored enough the remarkable difference Mike George made in Fred’s life. Mike George became Fred’s person, and would remain in that substantial role for the remainder of Fred’s life – almost 50 years. Fred was able to live with significant independence because Mike made sure Fred’s money was carefully spent, he had groceries, an apartment, and access to all the things needed to live.

The “village” that is Morgantown embraced Fred Fawcett fully, particularly downtown Morgantown store owners/employees. Many hired Fred to do all manner of odd jobs, fixed his bikes, and fed him. One Christmas Morgantown’s fire fighters pitched in to buy Fred cowboy boots which he wore with supreme pride. He was welcomed by Veterans, and often marched in parades with them, proudly wearing the vest they gave him (and in which he will be buried). No one received louder applause in parades than Fred, especially during 4^th of July parades when he’d decorate his bike and wear his Uncle Sam garb.

A highlight was being named “Grand Marshal” of the 2018 Christmas parade.

Fred loved John Wayne, Chuck Norris, western movies, puzzles, checkers, cards, cookies (“I’m the cookie monster!”), bike riding, but most of all socializing. Fred was always one to lend a helping hand. Fred was lovingly hosted by many individuals for holidays, birthdays, and all manner of family gatherings.

Thank you to everyone who welcomed and embraced Fred Fawcett, and especially all who visited him in his nursing homes.  You know who you are. If we tried to individually list each person we would surely fail. Truly all of us who loved Fred were the better for knowing him. A special thank you to the staffs of the nursing & rehab facilities Madison, and Mapleshire, respectively, for their warm, loving, care.

Fred will be interred at Maplewood Cemetery, Kingwood, WV, by Morgan Funeral Home. Once Covid-19 has passed, a gathering will be held to share favorite “Fred” stories at a location TBD.  

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