John Fredric Porter, Sr.

Wellford, SC - - John Fredric Porter, Sr. (Papa Fred), went home to be with his heavenly Father on April 29th, 2025 after a brief illness. Fred was born on July 18, 1932 in Winnsboro, SC to William Burnice and Esther Rebecca Boyd Porter, Sr. He was a USAF Radar technician during the Korean War. After attending both Clemson University and The University of South Carolina, he became a degree certified structural design architectural engineer. Mr. Porter was a member of the United Methodist Church of the Covenant in Spartanburg South Carolina as well as a member of the American Legion. He was a songwriter, inventor, storyteller, die-hard Clemson fan, an avid golfer, he loved to dance, he played the ukulele, and he could sing many classic tunes from years gone by, remembering ALL the lyrics! Papa Fred was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He was the youngest of six siblings, predeceased by all of them. He is survived by his wife Toni, his two daughters and a loving Labradoodle. He was blessed with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his two sons. There will be no formal services or burial. The family plans a celebration of life for Papa Fred which will be held in the coming weeks. Papa Fred donated to many charities every year and in lieu of flowers, the family would love for you to donate to your favorite charity.  An online guest register is available at www.blakelyfuneralhome.com

Blakely Funeral Home & Crematory, Gaffney, SC