Edward Frederick

Edward Frederick, born in Philadelphia, PA, on March 25, 1949, left this earth on October 31, 2026, just as he wished, at home, in the arms of the love of his life, his wife BettyAnn.

Ed is lovingly remembered by his cherished wife, Elizabeth (BettyAnn). For more than 40 years, Ed and BettyAnn shared a marriage filled with unwavering love. Her compassion and steadfast care and devotion were a source of strength to Ed and remain an inspiration to everyone who knows her.

Ed was predeceased by his parents, Nicholas V. Frederick and Eveline Gelfond Frederick.

Ed is also survived by his sons, Christopher (Anna Marie) and Michael (Vanessa); his four grandchildren, Juliana, Elena, Michael, and Isabella; his great-grandson, Easton Paul Frederick-Snyder; his brother Joel (Frances); his niece, Cheryl Arm (Stewart), and their children Eva Peurrung (Kevin) and Trevor; his nephew, Brandon; his cousin, Felicia Friedman Kaplan (Geoff), and their children, Liam and Emma; and countless friends from all walks of life in Philadelphia and Florida.

Ed leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a legacy of kindness, courage, and service.

Ed was born in Northeast Village and grew up in the Oxford Circle section of Philadelphia. He graduated from Frankford High School in 1966.

After working several jobs, Ed found his calling in service and joined the Philadelphia Police Department in 1974. A graduate of Police Academy Class 233, he proudly wore badge number 1957. Throughout his career, he served in several police districts and brought his dedication and courage to the Stakeout Unit and other specialized units. Ed also served as a Trustee of the FOP union from 1980-1982.

In November 1985, while on patrol, Ed heard a radio call reporting a traffic accident on I-95 involving a fallen police officer. Without hesitation, he rushed to the scene to try to save the officer. In doing so, Ed was exposed to an explosion involving severely toxic chemicals. This line-of-duty injury led to his early retirement from the Police Department in 1988 and was a contributing factor in his later cancer diagnosis. His actions that day reflected the courage and selflessness that defined his life. Being a member of the Philadelphia Police Department was something Ed was proud of until his last breath.

In 1989, Ed and BettyAnn began a new chapter together when they made Florida their home. Ed welcomed BettyAnn’s parents, Betty and Pete Matkowski, into their home and eventually her aunt, Natalie Young. Ed cared for BettyAnn’s family for 26 years, selflessly providing a home where they could live out their years in comfort and love, again highlighting how Ed cared about everyone and made it a priority always be there to make others’ lives better in any way he could.

In 1990, Ed started a new career working for Burt Reynolds as personal security. This experience led to Ed founding Gold Coast Limousines in 1992, building a successful business that endured for over 30 years due to his professionalism, discretion, and natural ability to connect with people. His business served many notable clients including heads of state, politicians, entertainers and even royalty, and created countless memorable connections.

Ed also served as the industry chairman of the Palm Beach County Vehicle-for-Hire Task Force, working to improve safety standards and regulations for the protection and well-being of drivers and passengers in the limousine industry, standards that remain in place today.

Ed was diagnosed with aggressive MDS (myleodysplastic syndrome) with multiple genetic mutations in the fall of 2025, which progressed to Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Ed fought this cancer the way he fought everything, valiantly, never considering quitting. He never gave up. His doctors were amazed at his strength, given the many serious setbacks he endured, yet he repeatedly continued the good fight.

Above all he did, Ed will be remembered as a man with a huge, generous heart. He believed that whenever someone needed help and he was able to give it, he had a responsibility to act. It was not simply something he said; it was the way he lived every day. Even from his hospital bed, upon learning that an old friend was facing a difficult problem, Ed’s first instinct was to find a way to help. His concern for others never wavered. Ed never met a stranger, only a friend he had not yet met. His warmth, humor, and open heart made people feel welcome wherever he went. Ed was truly one of a kind.

BettyAnn took her vow, in sickness and in health deeply to heart. She stood faithfully beside Ed through every joy and hardship, especially during his final valiant and courageous year fighting against devastatingly aggressive Myelodysplastic Syndrome and Acute Myeloid Leukemia. She was the steady, loving advocate and rock he needed. Their enduring bond was a testament to a life shared deeply in love.

BettyAnn wants the people who brought comfort and love into Ed’s last few months recognized for the joy they brought into Ed’s life:

Lt. Baker and Firefighters Kyle and Rock from Station 23, Rescue 231, whose respect and brotherhood for Ed’s police service and whose numerous visits brought him so much joy.

The incredible team at Stuart Oncology, led by Dr. Prashant Patel, for their unwavering commitment to fighting this insidious disease.

Cleveland Clinic Martin North Hospital, particularly the staff of 3 West, which became a home away from home for Ed and BettyAnn during his long hospitalizations. The doctors, nurses, and care team became family and provided immense support, comfort, and peace of mind while managing such a complex diagnosis. Dr. Alghadir, Nurses Hannah, Bonnie, Roni, Fabi, Cynthia, Youna, Gracee, Allie, Alison, Jennifer, Techs Devvini, Lily, Helen, Gadwin, and so many more who are unnamed, who brought immense compassion, relief, encouragement, and love to Ed over the 62 days he was hospitalized in recent months. 3 West was a blessing and became family for Ed & BettyAnn.

The only positive during Ed’s hellacious cancer journey was meeting these people along the way. All were a blessing to Ed, and BettyAnn.

Ed’s absence will be deeply felt, and he will be remembered not only for all he accomplished, but for the way he made others feel, welcomed, protected, and cared for. The love he gave, along with his strength, laughter, and generous spirit, will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, especially BettyAnn. Though gone from our sight, he remains deeply loved and will never be forgotten.

In gratitude for the countless life-saving transfusions Ed received, please make donations in his memory to your local blood bank or Red Cross.

A Funeral Mass will take place on November 21, 2026, at 11:30am at St. Christopher Catholic Church, 12001 SE Federal Hwy., Hobe Sound, FL 33455.

A Memorial will be held at a later date in Philadelphia.