OPELOUSAS – Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at Greater Shiloh Baptist Church in Opelousas, LA for Mr. Freddie James Offord, 76, who entered eternal rest on Monday, July 6, 2026 at his residence in Washington, LA.

Freddie James Offord was born on November 21, 1949, in Washington, Louisiana, to Hermann “Happy” Offord, Sr. and Beatrice “Bea” Montgomery Offord. He peacefully departed this life on July 6, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, strength, and devotion to family. Freddie was a loving Father, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather, Brother, Uncle, Cousin, Veteran, Contractor, Truck Driver, Public Servant, Community Supporter, and loyal Friend whose life was defined by service, hard work, generosity, faith, and an unwavering love for family.

At an early age, he gave his life to God and was baptized at Emma Zion Baptist Church in Washington, Louisiana, where his faith took root and remained an important part of his life. As a young man, Freddie participated in the Civil Rights Movement through Job Corps, helping to register voters, transport registered voters to the polls, and encourage civic engagement within his community. He believed deeply in carrying out our civic duties and took pride in helping others exercise their right to vote.

Freddie proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, serving two tours of duty and attaining the rank of Sergeant (E-6). In recognition of his honorable service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Expert Rifle Badge, and the Soldier’s Medal. Following his military service, Freddie built a life rooted in hard work and service to others. His primary profession was that of a Truck Driver (driving under the handle “Heart Breaker”), a role he carried out with dedication and pride. He also worked as a Contractor, and in his later years served in the Utilities Department for the City of Washington, where he remained a valued part of the community.

Freddie loved his family wholeheartedly and found joy in caring for and staying connected to those he loved. He was the proud father of four children. From his marriage to Odessa Brown Offord, he was blessed with Barsanett Offord-Brandon, Katrice Offord-Abdallah, and Kedrick Offord. He was also the loving father of Crystal Offord, whose mother is Theresa Wicks Montgomery. He took great pride in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, celebrating their accomplishments as if they were his own. The cool uncle he was, Freddie especially loved spending time with his nieces and nephews, creating bonds and memories they will forever hold close to their hearts. He also enjoyed spending his days with his siblings, on the porch talking with friends, sharing stories, laughing, and the simple joy of good company. His presence, wisdom, and warmth will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hermann “Happy” Offord, Sr. and Beatrice “Bea” Montgomery Offord; his brothers, Gregory Offord, Larry Offord, Raymond Offord, and Hermann Offord, Jr.; and his sisters, Gwendolyn Offord Davis and Lillian Offord Moten.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children, Barsanett Offord-Brandon (Ronald Brandon), Katrice Offord Abdallah (Ohaji Abdallah), Kedrick Offord, and Crystal Offord; his grandchildren, Jullian Jones (Alexia), Hassan Offord, Omari Abdallah, and Khaden Offord; his great-grandchildren, Ivy Jones and Emery Jones; his siblings, Rev. Johnnie Offord, Bonnie Armstrong, Pearlie Johnson, and Maxie Sam; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, other relatives, and dear friends. Freddie James Offord leaves behind a legacy of strength, love, service, and devotion that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at Greater Shiloh Baptist Church.

Words of condolences may be expressed at fordandjosephfh.com

Ford and Joseph Funeral Home, 907 N. Market St., Opelousas, LA, (337) 942-6750, is in charge of arrangements.