Frederick Dunham, Jr.

Frederick Dunham, Jr., 79, of Bryceville, Florida took his last breath on February 26, 2026, in Beth’s arms and with daughter Kathy steadfast and present. He was the first of six children, born July 6, 1946 in Chicago, Illinois, to Frederick Dunham, Sr. and Clara Ophelia Tolbert Dunham. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, and continued serving his country in a civil service roleas an airplane mechanic at the Naval Aviation Depot (NADEP) in Jacksonville. He was a member of the VFW #1095 in Hilliard, FL and VFW #7909 in Jacksonville, Fl. He was also a member of the American Legion.

He lived in many places, including the west coast of California (where he surfed with his brothers), but Florida has been home for many years. He was quick with a laugh, he had an ever-present s**t-eating grin, he loved to tell jokes and share stories; he liked to cook, and he enjoyed life to the fullest. He loved listening to great music and learned to play guitar. He could fix or build anything and appreciated quality tools and machinery. Getting out on the ocean to fish, playing cards, volunteering and participating in Legion and VFW events, spending time with friends and family, and working on his home and yard kept him busy during retirement. He was the best dog playmate and dog dad ever, and spent many hours hanging out on the floor and playing with many rescued dogs (and their toys) over the years, from Trixi to Cinnamon, Snowflake, Bear, Buford, and Bunnyrabbit, to Yoshi and Little Bear. Yoshi especially is missing him now, and Little Bear is keeping Yoshi and Beth company.

Fred is survived by the love of his life, Beth. They started dating in 1997 and did everything together for the next 29 years. Other survivors include their children: Kathy (Gary) Mullins, Kevin O'Quinn, and Maria Frazer. He has 7 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Fred was blessed to have a close connection with grandchildren who lived nearby: grandsons Sean and Jason grew up next door; and Marla and Kaden were also close. He is further survived by his brother Michael Dunham; his sister Cynthia Dunham Parsons; sisters-in-law Jane Dunham and Kari Jordahl, as well as special nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers Richard, Rodney, and Gary.

A graveside service will be held Wednesday, March 11 at 2:30 PM at Jacksonville National Cemetery with military honors. Please meet at the cemetery at least 15 minutes early. A sign is posted at the entrance by the administration building, where cemetery staff will provide additional guidance. The family is planning a backyard barbeque celebration of life in the near future, where we will share photos, memories and stories in remembrance of Fred.

Please sign the guest registry at www.srfhcallahan.com or send cards or donations to the family in care of the Shephard-Roberson Funeral Home - Callahan Chapel at 617365 Brandies Ave., Callahan, FL 32011.

Callahan Chapel is honored to serve the Dunham Family.