Oct. 25, 1952– Sept. 18, 2025
It is with heavy hearts and fond memories that we announce the passing of Freda Joan Ellis, known to all as Mom, Grandma, and a friend to so many. She left us peacefully on September 18, 2025, at the age of 72, after a long and brave battle with COPD.
Born on October 25, 1952, to Julie “Maxine” (Huckleberry) Ellis, Freda was a woman who made a lasting impact on everyone she met. A hardworking soul, she spent her life as a waitress, serving up not just meals but warmth, and the kind of genuine care that made everyone feel like family. She worked at several restaurants over the years, including the Red Barn, where she was able to meet many friends. She also spent summers in the fields around Cordell, chopping cotton. A woman of community spirit, she dedicated her time to the Salvation Army, where she worked to help those in need. For years, she rang the bell for the Red Kettle campaign, with a smile that could light up the coldest winter day, all while spreading joy and generosity to those who crossed her path. Her belief in hard work was only rivaled by her passion for loving deeply, whether that love was reserved for her family, her friends, or anyone who needed a kind word or a listening ear.
There was no filter with Freda, and that was part of what made her so unforgettable. She said exactly what was on her mind, and though that sometimes raised an eyebrow or two, it was always with the best of intentions and an honesty that was rare and cherished. She never shied away from telling you the truth, even if it was wrapped in a joke or delivered with a little sarcasm.
But beyond her boldness, it was her love that defined her most. She loved fiercely, with everything she had. Family meant the world to her and she was the heart of every gathering, the anchor who held everything together, and the person who made our house feel like home. As a mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, she gave of herself unconditionally. And when she loved, she loved hard.
Her life was not without its challenges, and the last years were no exception as she faced COPD with the same grit and determination she brought to every other part of her life. Through the difficulty, her resilience never waned, and she continued to be the spark that made everyone around her laugh, feel safe, and be loved.
For those who knew her, there was no better place to be than sitting with Freda, whether it was at her kitchen table, at a restaurant, or at the casino where she found joy in every spin. She found excitement in the little things, and even when life was tough, she always had a way of finding the humor in it.
She is survived by her daughter, Tammy (Ellis) Hayward and son, Timmy Ellis. She is also survived by her grandchildren Miah Hayward (David) of Yukon, Matthew Hayward (Madison) of Oklahoma City, and Michael Hayward (Jolene) of Weatherford. They will carry her spirit with them every day. Her laughter, her stories, her love for life will never be forgotten. She is also survived by her brothers John (Glenda) Ellis of Pampa, Texas, Franklin (Tom) Ellis of Achille, Oklahoma, and Fredrick Ellis of Anchorage, Alaska. She was preceded in death by her mother, Maxine Ellis, sisters Karla and Flora Janeen Ellis, her sister-in-law Belinda Ellis, and her youngest son Trae Ellis.
Rest in peace, Freda. You were one of a kind. And you will be missed more than words can express.