Frederick McCray Jr., born on April 7, 1983, in Tarrytown, New York, passed away on November 2, 2024. He was the beloved firstborn son of Anne Johnson and Frederick McCray Sr.

Frederick, affectionately known by many names—including “Casanova Frankenstein,” “Jefe the Great,” “Fred Deezy,” “Fred Diesel,” “Fred,” and “Frederick”—was a son, brother, nephew, devoted uncle, and friend. Above all, he was family, and he will forever hold that cherished place in our hearts.

Raised in Poughkeepsie, New York, Frederick attended FDR High School in Hyde Park. In 12th grade, he chose to leave the traditional educational path and completed his GED with remarkable ease, passing the exam without studying. Known for his intelligence and strong opinions, Frederick had a unique perspective on everything. His passionate manner of speaking could be mistaken for argumentativeness, but those who knew him understood his deep convictions.

After earning his GED, Frederick held several jobs, though health challenges limited some of his employment opportunities. In February 2024, he received a transplant, bringing renewed hope for his future. He then enrolled in the SAE Institute in Atlanta to study Audio Engineering, where he was set to graduate in January 2025 with a job offer already awaiting him. Frederick was eager for graduation and the new possibilities that lay ahead in his career.

Frederick was preceded in death by his father, Frederick McCray Sr.; paternal grandparents, Edward and Lucille McCray; uncles, Gary McCray and Edward "Snootie" McCray; first cousin, Gary McCray Jr.; maternal grandparents, Richard and Joan Johnson; his twin daughters, Elizabeth and Elana McCray (Brianna); and his brother, Ryan Gray (aka Boss G), along with sister-in-law, Clairece Hoo.

He is survived by his daughter, Aziyah Arijuana J’esquilin; his mother, Anne Johnson; his brother, Keith McCray; his sister, Nicole McCray; niece and nephew, Anise and Keith McCray Jr.; uncles Richard Johnson (and family, Shanika and Tamera), Jerome Johnson (and family, Jillian, Jerome, and Jared), and Dwayne Johnson; aunts Elaine Johnson (and family, Nyles), Stephanie Johnson (and family, A’Shantie and Nateima), and Jackie McCray (and family, Kimetra and Camille). Frederick also leaves behind numerous cousins, friends, and extended family in Poughkeepsie, New York.

The family of Frederick McCray Jr. extends their heartfelt gratitude for the comfort and support they have received. A special thank you to our cousin, Albert Byone, for officiating the ceremony.