Fredrick Wayne King, 86, of Gainesville, Texas, passed away on August 10, 2025. He was born in Fort Worth, Texas, on July 31, 1939, to John Monroe King and Eva Lela Hart.
On November 20, 1964, Fred married the love of his life, Doris Baker, at Plymouth Park Baptist Church in Irving, Texas. He was a proud graduate of the University of Texas at Arlington and worked as an engineer for more than 30 years. Alongside his professional career, he faithfully served as Interim Minister of Music at Plymouth Park Baptist Church, sharing his love of music with the congregation.
Fred’s passions were as wide and varied as his talents. For over 50 years, he was a dedicated cattleman and rancher. He enjoyed tending his garden, working with his hands, and restoring vintage cars. He was a devoted member of Marysville Baptist Church for more than five decades, where his faith and service left a lasting impact.
Above all, Fred was the sweetest and most loving husband and father. He never met a stranger, and his warm smile and easy conversation touched countless lives.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Doris Baker King of Gainesville; children, Jodi Denton and husband Pate of Prosper, Rodney King of Gainesville, and Shelly Lazzaro of Dallas; grandchildren, Mallory Denton, McKenna Denton, August Lazzaro, Nicholas Lazzaro, and Grace Lazzaro; sister, Linda Hardy and husband Jim of Hurst.
Fred was preceded in death by his parents, John and Eva Lela; father- and mother-in-law, Seamon and Marian Baker; Eliza “Auntie” Wood; and brother-in-law, David Reed, and his wife, MaryJo.
A memorial service will be held Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Marysville Baptist Church.
He was such a kind a friendly man and was always eager to help with a problem. Rodney and family I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Fred was always kind to me. Prayers for his family during this difficult time.
Fred will be greatly missed. A great husband, father and man. Rest in Peace Fred.
I met Freddy when we did ranch work – baling and hauling hay – together on the Cole place in the 50’s when we were teenagers. Freddy and my older brother played together on the Gainesville community baseball team and sometimes I was invited to play with them when they were short a player to prevent a forfeit. We were ranching neighbors for many years. Those are my fond memories of Fred.
Linda and I send our deepest sympathy to Doris and family. Robert (RH) Hickman
I’m so sorry for your loss. Fred was good friends with my Daddy, Cal. I know they are up in Heaven talking about cars and swap meets.
Fred forever in many hearts. May he sleep until the end – Daniel 12:13. God is Love and has him in his memory – Acts 24:15
We have many fond memories of the years we lived next door to our dear neighbor in Sivell’s Bend. He was such a wonderful friend and Algebra tutor. Because of his faithful help I managed to make an A in college Algebra. He put aside his obligations to make certain he had time most evenings after his long day at work to help me complete my assignments. We have many fond memories of Fred, however his patience as a teacher still hold strong in my memories. Steve and Jene’e