Freeda F. McGaughy, age 92 of Salem, passed away on Friday, October 8, 2021, at Salem Township Hospital, Salem, Illinois.
Freeda was born on May 6, 1929, in Slapout, Illinois, the daughter of Bluford and Bertha Loat (Donoho) Roberts. She attended Salem High School, class of 1947. After graduation, she worked as a switchboard operator for Bell Telephone Company. She married William W. McGaughy on September 13, 1952, in Salem, Illinois. William preceded Freeda in death on October 20, 1990. They were married 38 years.
Freeda is survived by one son, Robert McGaughy and wife Sandy of Salem and two daughters, April Rottman and husband Ed of South Beloit, IL, and Dr. Jill McGaughy of Portsmouth, New Hampshire; grandchildren, Robert McGaughy and wife Andrea of Salem, IL, Jessica Tindell and wife Zelda of Decatur, IL, Meagan Walker and husband Jacob of Pleasant View, Utah, Sara Rottman of South Beloit, IL, and 3 great-grandsons. She was also preceded in death by her parents, step-mother, Effie, husband, son, William (Billy) Dean McGaughy, 6 brothers, and 2 sisters.
Though she was primarily a homemaker, she worked with her husband as a real estate salesperson. She was also the secretary and bookkeeper for McGaughy Real Estate and Oil. Freeda was known for her cooking, hospitality, and love of learning. She traveled extensively both nationally and internationally. She was a member of the Salem Presbyterian Church for over 60 years. She was an active part of the United Presbyterian Women, many church committees, and the annual Christmas cookie sale. For over 50 years, she hosted an annual Christmas Eve party for family and friends.
Funeral services for Freeda F. McGaughy will be held on Friday, October 15, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. at the Salem Presbyterian Church in Salem with Denise Burke officiating. Interment will follow at East Lawn Cemetery in Salem. Visitation will be held on Thursday at Crouse Funeral Home in Salem from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Memorials can be made to Salem Presbyterian Church, The Make-a-Wish Foundation, or The American Cancer Society and can be received at the funeral home. Online condolences can be left at www.CrouseFH.com.
