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Fred Wilson Medlin, Sr., 88, of Salisbury, NC, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2019, surrounded by his family.
Born October 4, 1930 in Chester County, SC to Alexander Amos Medlin and Estelle Wilson Medlin, he attended Great Falls High School in SC and served as President of his senior class, graduating in 1950. In 1958, he graduated from the University of South Carolina School of Pharmacy. He opened Towne Pharmacy on West Innes Street in Salisbury, NC (now Moose Pharmacy) in 1963, and sold the business in 1978. He later worked as a licensed pharmacist for Revco and the VA Medical Center, also in Salisbury. After his retirement, he consulted for RHA Health Services.
He was Staff Sergeant in the US Air Force from 1950-1954 during the Korean War, serving finally with the 46th Fighter Interceptor Squadron. He was awarded a Purple Heart for injuries sustained in combat but refused to accept it out of respect for his fellow servicemen who lost their lives in action. On one mission, his plane was the only one of twelve that returned to base. His unit also received the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.
He was a passionate golfer during his retirement years and traveled extensively with his buddies to play on public golf courses in the area. He was also a skilled bird-carver and excellent marksmen. He won a North Carolina State Shoot (Handicap) Championship in 1975.
He is remembered by his family for his sense of humor, warm heart, and generosity. He was a dedicated member of the Salisbury community, serving for eight years as a member of the Rowan County Board of Health (1968-76), as Member and Chairman of the Rowan County Department of Social Services (1981-86), President of the Rowan County Merchants Association (1977-78), and President of the Rowan County Seniors Golf Association (1977).
He was married in Fairforest, SC on December 21, 1957 to Ann Compton Medlin, and recently celebrated his 61st wedding anniversary. He is survived by his wife and four children: Fred Wilson Medlin, Jr. of Apex, NC (wife, Denice); Katherine Lynn Perkins of New York, NY (husband, Richard); Carol Ann Medlin of Falls Church, VA; and Mary Charlotte Medlin of Salisbury, NC.
He also leaves behind three grandchildren and a great grand-daughter including Jacob Amos Medlin, wife Jennifer, and daughter Michaela Rose of Greensboro, NC; Jeremy Francis Medlin and wife Lindsay of Chapel Hill, NC; Clayton Alden Perkins of New York, NY; and his beloved cat, Miss Kitty.
He was preceded in death by sister Bobbie Ann Ellisor (d. 2015) and two brothers who died in childhood.
There will be a graveside service on Thursday, May 9, 2019 at 10 am at the Salisbury National Cemetery (501 Statesville Blvd. Salisbury, NC 28144) with Military Honors provided by the United States Air Force and the Rowan County Veterans Honor Guard.
The family will greet friends and relatives at John Calvin Presbyterian Church of Salisbury following the graveside service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The ARC of Rowan, 108 Dorsett Dr., Salisbury, NC or Trinity Oaks, 728 Klumac Rd., Salisbury, NC.
Peggy Harris says
Ann I am so very sorry for you and your beautiful family. Please know how much I loved Fred and you. I will always remember our good times. I will be in touch, I know you are with your family .
Maggi Blizzard says
My condolences to this precious family. A more caring group, I have not seen. Fred was one of the dearest, sweetest men I have ever known. Such a tender heart and compassion for others. Sleep well dear Fred.
Carol Cody says
Ann, I am so very sorry for all of you. Please know how often I think of you and your family and especially at this time.
Kathy Graham Pulliam says
Please know you and the entire family are in our thoughts and prayers. May God hold you in the light and provide comfort and peace.
Dr. Trueblood says
Ann, I am sorry for your lost. Just know you and your family are in my prayers. The Lord is a great comforter in times like this.
Dr Trueblood
Kenny Compton says
It is impossible to think of Uncle Fred without great admiration for his well-lived life. He was a very sweet and loving man and I shall always remember him fondly. May the Lord give all of you His peace and comfort through this difficult time.
Stan Compton says
Aunt Ann, Lynn, Carol, Chip, and Mary:
May the love of God be with you in the coming days. Uncle Fred was such a warm caring man. I remember Uncle Fred always enjoyed spending time with us “kids” at the family events. I admired him greatly and know your memories will provide comfort during this difficult time. Love to all.
Stan
Phyllis Post says
Ann, I wanted you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Phyllis
John and Paula Jay says
Dear Aunt Ann, Lynn, Chip, Carol and Mary,
John and I were so very sorry to hear of Uncle Fred’s passing. I have many fond memories of Uncle Fred, and in them, I always see his smile, his contagious smile. John and I hope that all of you are able to find a sense of comfort and peace during this time. We will be holding you all close to our hearts. Much love
Kay Ormand says
Fred brought much laughter and a sense of sanity to my life during a period where it was often insane. My thoughts are with you, Ann and family.
Matthew and Connie Compton says
Aunt Ann, Lynn, Chip, Carol and Mary,
We just wanted to express our deepest sympathy and let you know your love for Fred will always be a comfort to us all. I was so impressed and admired the personal stories he shared with me at Mary’s house. He truly was a man of many talents, that is evident by his children and the way he lived. He will be missed and fondly remembered.
Becky Hammill says
Ann and Family:
Thinking of all during this time of your loss. You have my deepest sympathy and may you feel love and comfort from family and friends.
Monica Woldt says
Dear Carol and Family,
Please accept my deepest condolences — I am so very sorry for your loss. May you find peace and comfort in loving memories and strength through those who share in your loss.