Freda Merlene Butler
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Freda's obituary
Obituary for Freda Merlene Butler
August 28, 1953 – July 1, 2025
Freda Merlene Butler was born on a Friday morning, August 28, 1953, in Riverside, California at the General Hospital of Riverside County, to her loving parents, Lenora Lenox and Larence Butler Sr. She was the cherished granddaughter of Julyer (Julia) Holmes and Jessie Ann, women whose strength and legacy helped shape Freda’s beautiful spirit.
At the age of sixteen, Freda married her high school sweetheart, Charles E. Johnson Sr., and from that union came her greatest gifts—her children: Julyer (Julie) Ann Johnson, Tabitha Sherrie Johnson, and Charles Edward Johnson II.
Freda’s journey was one of restoration, faith, and fierce love. Though life brought its share of challenges, she embraced the latter years of her life with unmatched devotion, especially to her grandchildren. She poured her heart into them, making up for lost time and becoming a constant presence, a guiding light, and a true source of strength. Her generosity knew no bounds, and her love was felt deeply by those blessed to know her.
Freda was known for her sharp wit, bold spirit, and unwavering honesty. She spoke her truth, loved hard, and gave from a place of pure compassion. Whether you were family or friend, Freda made you feel like you mattered.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Lenora Lenox and Larence Butler Sr., her grandmothers Julyer Holmes and Jessie Ann, her siblings Bernell Butler, Larry Butler, and Deloris Butler, her grandson Jeremy Tarel Jackson, her granddaughter Alaysha, and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends who now welcome her into eternal rest.
Freda leaves behind her three children, and her beloved grandchildren: Tay, Tyronne, Raynard Jr., Rayneisha, Karissa, Branden, Robert III, Kianna, and Jayden, along with numerous great-grandchildren who filled her heart with pride and joy.
She is also survived by her brothers: Victor Butler, Perlis Butler, Larence Butler Jr., and Dewayne Butler, and a host of nieces and nephews, including Kimberly Butler, Lynette Butler, Molissa Butler, Latice Butler, Shawn Butler, Lorenzo Cael, Derick Butler, Timothy Butler, and Samuel Butler—along with many more cousins and extended family members who loved her dearly.
Freda’s life was a beautiful reflection of grace, redemption, and the enduring power of love. She will be remembered for the light she carried, the strength she modeled, and the love she left behind.
Her Celebration of Life will be held on:
📅 Saturday, July 19, 2025
🕙 Viewing: 10:00 AM | 🕚 Service: 11:00 AM
📍 Higher Ground Church of God in Christ
5339 Mission Blvd, Riverside, CA 92509
📞 (951) 782-9904
For day of service questions, flowers and cards, or donations, please contact Kimberly Butler
Flowers and cards may be sent directly to the church.
“She fought through, loved deeply, and left her mark on every heart she touched.”
We will miss her more than words can express—but we rejoice in knowing she is finally home.
With love,
The Butler, Johnson, and extended family
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