Dr. Terry Frederick, 89, renowned architect of the University of Central Florida's much lauded Computer Science program, died on December 15, 2025. A father of three, Frederick is survived by Marilyn Frederick, his wife of nearly 69 years; son John Frederick (Betzy); daughter Jackie Mueller (Brad); and son Jeff Frederick (Melinda). His grandchildren include Nathan Mueller, Jocelyn Parrott (Matthew), Zachary Frederick (Kate), Travis Frederick, Logan Frederick (Grace), Jack Frederick (Brittany), Quinton Frederick, and Ethan Frederick. His great-grandchildren are Franklin Parrott, Lucas Frederick, and Carter Frederick.
Frederick was born in Bicknell, Indiana, on November 22, 1936, to Clifford and Nola Frederick. He came of age during World War II and developed an affinity for learning and basketball, earning bachelor's and master's degrees from Indiana State University in mathematics, and a Ph.D. in Intelligent Systems from the University of Wisconsin. He held faculty positions at Wisconsin and Purdue University before moving to Orlando in 1975, where he became Chair of the Math department and eventually launched the Computer Science department in 1977. Frederick's leadership led to a program that featured bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. The Ph.D. in computer science was the institution's first doctoral program, as well as the first computer science doctoral program in the state.
Frederick's vision and acumen helped the computer science program grow significantly in student demand, research partnerships, and academic reputation. He was promoted to full professor in 1979 and became one of the first UCF Distinguished Service professors in 1985. He served as director of the Computer Science Research Institute and later held positions as associate dean in the College of Arts and Sciences and was named emeritus professor. He received research funding for various scientific inquiries and published papers and findings on matters of mathematical modeling, computer-related instruction, and computer science education.
Frederick was an avid golfer, card-player, and UCF sports fan. He designed and built his own Frank Lloyd Wright-style home, held various leadership roles in churches, and quietly supported many charitable organizations with his time and treasure in Orlando and in western North Carolina after retirement. He was a notorious jokester who enjoyed teasing his grandchildren and showed his love for his family members by giving them endearing nicknames. A thoughtful reader of many things, including theology, he was as happy in a deep conversation as he was watching a ballgame, but never happier than with his wife and family.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday December 21, 2025 at 4 pm at Providence Presbyterian church at 2252 on Harshaw Road in Murphy, North Carolina. Pastor David Hina will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to the Pregnancy and Parenting Center, PO Box 866, Andrews, North Carolina 28901.
Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.
You may send tributes to the family at
www.townson-rose.com
Belinda Darlene Hardin 
