Published in the June 29, 2018 edition
MELROSE — Jessie A. (Smith) Freda, 86, lifelong Melrose resident, passed away peacefully on Friday, June, 22, 2018 with her family by her side.
Born on November 11, 1931 in Stoneham, Jessie was one of two children of the late Harry F. and Grace (Stewart) Smith. Jessie grew up in Melrose and graduated from Melrose High School in 1950. After High School, she attended Chandler College in Boston.
Jessie worked at Melrose-Wakefield Hospital in the X-Ray and Housekeeping departments for a number of years before retiring.
Jessie’s true love and passion were her family, and helping others in need. She was highly active in her children’s and grandchildren’s lives and always looked forward to holiday family gatherings.
A longtime member of the Melrose First Baptist Church, Jessie was active in many different capacities. She taught Sunday School, sang in the choir, led bible studies, and was active in the Stephen’s Ministry. Feeding the homeless was of great importance to her and she was a co-founder of the Pantry of Hope.
With a zest for life and great spunk, one could find Jessie making new friends with people she would meet when she was out and about, or travelling. Some of her favorite places to go were Alaska, England, Nova Scotia, and California. Her favorite place to go though was Ocean Park, Maine.
A bright light and beautiful soul has passed from this place. Those she has touched, from her family, friends, or those she helped feed through her work in the church, are blessed to have had Jessie in their life.
Jessie is the beloved wife of the late Edward S. Freda with whom she shared 21 years of marriage. Devoted mother of Glen M. Crawford and his wife Bonnie of Ocean Springs, Miss., James S. Crawford and his wife Barbara of Limerick, Maine., Lynn A. Hughes and her husband James of Melrose, Edward Freda, Jr. and his wife Elaine of Hope Mills, N.C., and Robert Freda and his wife Sheila of Cocoa Beach, Fla. Dear sister of Jeffery W. Smith and his wife Rosemary of Manchester, Conn. Cherished grandmother of 21 grandchildren. Also survived by several great-grandchildren.
Relatives and friends gathered in honor and remembrance of Jessie’s life on Tuesday, June 26 at Melrose First Baptist Church, 561 Main Street, Melrose, for her funeral service. A collation followed immediately after the service at the church.
Contributions in her memory may be made to the Melrose First Baptist Church, Jessie A. Freda Memorial Fund, 561 Main Street, Melrose, MA. 02176.
For online tribute or directions: RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
