"So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. (John 16:22, NIV)"

Frederick Douglas Spratley, Jr. , a native of Newport News, VA entered eternal rest and peace on Monday, October 30, 2023, at his residence.

Born March 5, 1939, the only child of the late Deacon Frederick Douglas Spratley, Sr., and the late Mary Elizabeth Shelton Spratley, his birth brought so much joy. Growing up in Newport News, just to hear his melodious voice, see his infectious smile and feel his heartfelt hug would brighten your day If you were around him even a short time, you would remember the impact from his love for God.

"Mr. Fred" as he was affectionately named by the teachers and staff of Tidewater Park Elementary School, gave his life to Christ at the age of 12. he was a devout member of Antioch Baptist Church, Newport News, VA for 72 years until his passing. As a faithful and dedicated trustee for many years, he was extremely active, attending church regularly until he became disabled in recent years.  Music was always in his heart and resonated in his soul.  He was a natural tenor/baritone who loved harmony and shared this God given talent by singing in, leading and often directing the Senior, Gospel and Male Choirs

A graduate of Huntington High School, Newport News, Virginia (Class of 1958) , his love for crunching numbers led him to pursue further education at Durham Business College, Durham, North Carolina.  This journey was especially fruitful as in 1961, he met the love of his life Sylvia Ann Eaddy.  His forever love became his wife on January 3, 1962.  After returning to Newport News, they became the proud parents of the late Antonio Darnell Spratley and Karen Andrea Spratley Jakes (Columbus, Georgia).

Following his educational matriculation, Frederick was employed by Huntington Ingalls Industries (formally Newport News Shipbuilding) for 41 years before retiring. He was also employed by Montgomery Wards (formerly Korvettes) , retiring in 1999.

In his spare time, during his younger years, he enjoyed playing volleyball, basketball, softball, swimming, and running track. During his later years, he enjoyed watching westerns, spending time with his lovely wife, and making sure he was never left out of any conversation.  He had such a heart of kindness and love, giving freely of himself, sharing whatever he had to help those in need.

The Spratley Family offer special thanks to the Riverside Hospice Care team who provided his final care and allowed him to transition in his own residence.

He leaves to celebrate his life and cherished memories his wife of 61 years, Dr. Sylvia; his daughter, Karen; first cousin, Sherly Parsons (Roy) of Newport News VA; one sister-in-law, Ida P. Cooper of Jamaica, New York; one brother-in-law, Henry L. Eaddy (Elizabeth) of Rahway, New Jersey; 3 nieces, 2 nephews, several great nieces and nephews, other relatives as well as those who loved and cared for him.

Viewing will be held Wednesday, November 8, 2023 from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel, 1601-27th Street, Newport News, Va. A funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, November 9, 2023 at Antioch Baptist Church, 2819 Roanoke Avenue, Newport News, Va.  The entombment will follow in Hampton Memorial Gardens.