Frederick Robertson

Remembering Frederick L Robertson The Author of All, records that Frederick Leonard Robertson (known as F.L. to some), was a loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was born on September 16, 1938 and was the eldest of three children born to Edwyna and Frederick Robertson, Sr. Frederick and his brothers grew up in South Nashville. They were surrounded by love, strength and care of a mother who gave her best to her family.

Fred attended the public schools in Nashville. He graduated from the historic Pearl High School in 1956. After graduation he attended both Tennessee State University as well as Union Adventist University in Lincoln, Nebraska. He completed three years of academic study. After leaving college, Fred met the love of his life, Gwendolyn Irvin. Fred and Gwen married on June 15, 1966 and later welcomed their children Derek and Joy.

Fred made the awesome decision to serve his country. He became a member of the United States Navy and served faithfully during the Vietnam era. During his service, Fred worked as a communication technician and radio operator. He earned several commendations and among them was the National Defense Service Medal. He was honorably discharged on November 3, 1971. However, Fred continued to serve by joining the naval reserves for several years.

After leaving the military, Fred worked in a variety of professions. He worked as an Allstate insurance agent for a number of years. His clients knew that with Fred on their side they were in, “good hands.” Later, Fred worked for the Airplane Manufacturer, Textron Aviation, for 40 years in various capacities until his retirement on February 28, 2020 at the age of 81.

Fred really enjoyed a variety of sports and sports teams. His favorite football team was the Chicago Bears. Most of all, Fred adored his beloved wife, Gwen. They celebrated 60 years of marriage a few weeks before his passing. Fred loved his family. He never missed an opportunity to share photos of his son Derek and daughter Joy. He talked about how proud he was of his children, and grandchildren. You could see his eyes dance with happiness as he explained what his family was up to during holidays and other special events. What the Lord created through Fred and Gwen, meant the world and more to Fred.

Spending time with his Lord and Savior was important to Fred as in recent years he returned to worshipping at Hillcrest Seventh-day Adventist church where he was raised and where his mother served as the church clerk, and Health Leader for many years. Fred never missed Sabbath School and Divine Worship. He enjoyed Sabbath School and thought it was an important experience to gain deeper knowledge of the grace and mercy our Lord provides. As a matter of fact, Fred never came empty-handed to Sabbath School; he always bought food donations for Sabbath School breakfast, so that participants did not have to worry about breakfast at home on Sabbath mornings. After Sabbath School, Fred would walk into the sanctuary with loads of candy to pass out to old and new friends. He never met a stranger and was so kind and friendly to anyone who crossed his path. He met folks where they were, and embraced their experiences as they in turn embraced him. Fred would do what he could to benefit his church socially, emotionally, and financially. Fred was genuine in his life, his actions, and his sincerity in loving the Lord and trusting in his Savior.

On June 25, 2026, Fred grew weary and closed his eyes in the arms of his loving Savior. Fred was preceded in death by his mother Edwyna Chandler, (Sam Chandler, Sr.); his father Frederick L. Robertson, Sr.; and his step brother, Sam Chandler, Jr.

And now, as the Heavenly father brings to a close the life of Frederick L. Robertson on this earth, He remembers those who are left to cherish and reflect on the memories of his life. Frederick’s devoted wife, Gwendolyn Robertson; his loving children, Joy Robertson Smith (Rick), and Derek Guy Robertson (Erica); His dear brothers, LaNorvell Robertson (Pat), and Ralph Robertson; His wonderful grandchildren, Noelle Smith, Meredith Robertson, and Ethan Robertson; a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins; as well as his Hillcrest Church Family.

"The righteous man walks in his integrity; His children are blessed after him."