Fred Sommerville Jr. passed away on December 20, 2025.
Fred “BeBe” Sommerville Jr., a beloved father, grandfather, veteran, and friend, was born on June 20, 1930, in Akron, Ohio, to Fred and Evelyn Sommerville. He was educated in the Akron Public School system and went on to serve his country with honor and bravery in the United States Army. Fred fought on the front lines during the Korean War and was awarded the Purple Heart for his service. He was honorably discharged, carrying with him a deep sense of pride in his military service.
In September 1951, Fred married Jane L. Hill. From this union, two children were born, Michael and Trulove. In June 1955, he married Ethel Dix, and together they welcomed three children, Veronica, Kevin, and Debbie. Fred was a dedicated provider and family man throughout his life.
Fred spent many years working at Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, where he remained until his retirement at the age of 55. His strong work ethic and commitment were evident in all that he did.
Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Evelyn Sommerville; his brother, Charles H. Sommerville; his nephew, Jerry Sommerville; his grandchildren, David T. Sledge and Jeneen L. Theodore; his sister-in-law, Jerry Sommerville; and his favorite cousin, Carla Sommerville.
He leaves to cherish his memory his children: Michael Sommerville; Trulove (William) Jackson; Veronica Sommerville; Kevin (Maggie) Sommerville; and Deborah (Herman) Sommerville-Brown. He is also survived by a loving legacy of grandchildren: Kalib Sommerville, Natisha Sommerville-Dent, Stacy Hayes, Marcellous (Tracey) Sledge Sr., Kimberly House, Jermaine Sommerville, Courtney (Quinton) Sommerville-Carrington, Enjoli Spauding, Ronald Smith, Whitney Smith, Jerred Sommerville, and Dominic Sommerville; sister-in-law, Sue Sommerville; nieces and nephews, Charles Fredick, Veronica Sommerville, Teresa Jones, Deonna Matthews, Deidra Matthews, Johnny Burks, and Tara Burks; his favorite cousin-in-law, Jewel Sommerville; and his special friend, Patricia Campbell. He also leaves behind a cherished bonus family including William, Bonnie, Joe, and Parris “PJ” Campbell, Carlton “Kid” Hale, Marvin Burke, Marco and Debra Sommerville, John “Limboy” Smith, David Roddy, Bridgett Haynes, Valarie Sommerville and Lena Wynn; friend, Vi-Nita Macon and a host of other relatives and friends.
Fred “BeBe” Sommerville Jr. will be remembered for his strength, loyalty, service to his country, and the deep love he held for his family and friends. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched.
Visitation will be held on Monday, December 29, 2025, from 12:00 noon until 1:30 pm at Sommerville Funeral Services, 1695 Diagonal Rd. Akron, Oh 44320. Funeral service will immediately follow. Internment Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at 10:45 am at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery.