Fredric “Freddy”

Thomas Mertell III

Fredric “Freddy” Thomas Mertell III, aged 53, of Hoxie, AR, passed away on November 4, 2026, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO. Born and raised in St. Louis, Freddy was known for his big personality, even bigger heart, and a profound commitment to his faith and community.

Over the last two years of his life, Freddy embraced a new journey centered around God and sobriety. As a Sober Living Sponsor, he dedicated his daily life to working closer with God and guiding countless others on their own paths to recovery. His family has been comforted by a flood of stories detailing his unwavering dedication to helping those in need; when Freddy saw someone struggling, he simply could not abide it. He aspired deeply to be a fighter and a protector for others—a calling he fulfilled in his final moments. When his body could no longer serve him, he found the strength to live just long enough to donate his liver and kidneys, giving the ultimate gift of life to others.

Freddy was preceded in death by his mother, Joyce Rowe; his father and stepmother, Fredric Mertell Jr. and Wanda Mertell; his paternal grandparents, Fredric Mertell Sr. and Dora Mertell; and his maternal grandparents, Thomas Fields, Sr. and Cassie Fields.

He is survived by his younger sisters, Tina Pender of Van Buren, MO, and Anthony Mertell of Cecilia, LA. He leaves behind his five children: Tiffany Mertell of Kaplan, LA; Hayleigh Mertell of Kansas City, MO; Kenzie Dunning of Owensville, MO; Fredric “Tommy” Mertell IV of Owensville, MO; and Nova Mertell of Houston, TX. He was the proud grandfather of 13 grandchildren: Scarlet, Eleanor, Willow, Anderson, Morgan, Rylee, Kent, Camilla, Ather, Jorah, Zomorah, Ozborn, and Charlotte. He is also survived by a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who loved him dearly, including a special acknowledgment to his Aunt Penny, who provided unwavering support during his hardest times.

Freddy is now at peace with his parents and his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His family holds tight to the words of Psalm 27:6: "Then my head will be exalted above enemies who surround me; at his sacred tent, I will sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the Lord."

A memorial service to celebrate Freddy's life will be held on Saturday, November 21, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at People's Faith Tabernacle, located at 1202 Sullens Road, Hoxie, AR 72433.