Remembering a Legend: The Life and Legacy of Frederick J. Fox in the Heart of Sarasota
Sarasota has lost a beloved figure with the passing of Frederick J. Fox, who departed this life at the age of 97 on December 3, 2024. Known for his vibrant spirit and dedication to family, Fred leaves behind a rich legacy that stretches from the rolling greens of golf courses to the bustling community of friends and loved ones in Florida.
A Glimpse into Fred’s Life
Born on December 28, 1926, in the small town of Hawk Run, Pennsylvania, Fred was the cherished son of Paul and Anne Fox. A life well-lived comes with memories, and for Fred, those memories are plentiful. He relocated to Cleveland, Ohio, at just ten years old, where he and his three brothers forged childhood friendships that lasted a lifetime. After graduating from Cleveland West Tech, Fred took a leap into service, joining the United States Army.
Upon his return, Fred began a long-standing career with Sohio, which would eventually become British Petroleum (BP). After nearly three decades of hard work, he retired in 1990, relocating to the sunny shores of Sarasota, Florida. He was thrilled to finally have more time to pursue his passions, one of which was his enduring love for the game of golf.
Golfing Till the Very End
Here in Sarasota, Fred was known not just as a family man but as an avid golfer, still hitting the greens until he turned 91. His competitive spirit was evident, especially when he proudly displayed his hole-in-one plaque from The Longboat Key Club, which he achieved during one of the many rounds he played. He truly embodied the essence of Florida living, where golf and community converge, bringing people together.
Outside the golf course, Fred was a devout Tampa Bay Rays and Buccaneers fan, following every game with the enthusiasm of a true sports lover. His passion for these teams revealed his connection to Florida culture, proving that he embraced his new home wholeheartedly.
Family and Community Connections
Fred’s heart was as big as his love for golf. He is survived by his two sons, Larry and Terry, along with six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Family gatherings often revolved around sports, stories, and of course, golf. With numerous nieces and nephews also in the picture, his home was a hub of cherished family moments.
His wife, Elaine Fox, whom he was married to for an amazing 58 years, was the love of his life, and her memory lived on in every family gathering they cherished. With her passing, Fred’s family became more determined than ever to honor her memory and continue creating a legacy of love that Fred nurtured throughout his life.
Honoring His Life
As his family prepares to say goodbye, they invite those in the community to join them for a funeral Mass at Saint Martha’s Catholic Church at 10:00 AM on Saturday, January 11. Following the service, a celebration of Fred’s life will take place, one where stories will flow just like laughter among friends and family. This is a moment for the Sarasota community to come together to support one another and share the joyous memories of a man who gave so much to those around him.
Fred’s passing is not only felt by his family but by everyone who represented the essence of community golf in Sarasota. As the golf courses remain lush under the Florida sun, his spirit will undoubtedly linger, inspiring future generations of golfers to embrace the sport that brought him so much joy.
In these challenging times, let’s celebrate Fred’s life by picking up our clubs and hitting the greens—because that’s what he would have loved most.
