Freddie English

Fred Allen English, of Raleigh, North Carolina, passed away tragically on October 9, 2025, as the result of a train accident. His passing was sudden and heartbreaking for all who knew him.

Freddie lived a life full of highs and lows, but through it all, he remained uniquely himself — talkative, outgoing, and never one to meet a stranger. Whether in passing conversation or long talks, he had a way of connecting with people and leaving a lasting impression.

He faced many challenges throughout his life, including his battle with addiction, which at times caused distance between him and those he loved. Yet even through the struggle, his heart held love for his family — especially for his children: Skylynn (8), Jaxon (8), and Adilynn English (4), with their mother Jennifer English; and Jayden Rigdon (14), with his mother Cari Rigdon-Parrish “Baby Mama #1” (Donald). He loved his kids as much as he was able, and they were always in his heart.

Freddie is survived by his siblings: Christopher English, Brandi Tomlinson (Preston), James Davis (April), Kristin Rigdon (Casey), Harrison English, Phillip English, Lindsay Delgado (Elias), Patricia Lynch, and Michael Stapleton; and by his beloved Aunt Saundra Dunn and her husband, Paul. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends who cared for him deeply.

He was preceded in death by his adoptive parents, Lois and Dwight English; his biological parents, Fred Jackson Branch, Jr. and Lorraine Walker; his brother, Paul Stapleton; his maternal grandparents, Roger and Maggie Sapp; and his paternal grandparents, Fred Jackson Branch, Sr. and Lois B. Bryant.

Though his life was not without hardship, Freddie will be remembered for his sharp mind, his sense of humor, his perfectionist nature, and his unforgettable personality. He could have a conversation with anyone, anywhere, and had a way of leaving his mark wherever he went. Despite his struggles, he knew and loved many people, and his memory will live on through the lives he touched and the love he shared in his own way.

May he finally have the peace he searched for.