Freda Caulder Miller

Freda Elaine (Caulder) Miller peacefully departed this life on April 12, 2024, after a brief illness. Throughout her journey, Freda remained steadfast in her love for travel and her unbridled enthusiasm for discovering new and unique experiences. Her unwavering zest for life was a guiding light that illuminated her path until the very end.

Born at home in the town of Chesterfield, South Carolina on March 2, 1947, Freda’s journey through life was a testament to her love for exploration and discovery. The eldest child to the late Hadley and Lillian Caulder, Freda’s unquenchable thirst for knowledge shone brightly from her earliest days. A 1965 graduate of Chesterfield High School, she excelled academically, becoming a standout figure at her school as head cheerleader, active member of numerous clubs, and earning the distinguished title of “Most Likely to Succeed” during her senior year.

Following her high school graduation, Freda enrolled at East Carolina College in Greenville, NC, where fate introduced her to Charles Miller. Their love story blossomed, leading to marriage and a joint adventure in the United States Air Force (USAF). Together, they embarked on a journey that took them to various stations, including Germany, San Antonio, TX, the Azores in Portugal, and Portsmouth, NH. Sadly, Charles passed away in 1984, leaving behind cherished memories of their time together.

During her time at Lajes Field, the USAF’s refueling point in the Azores, Freda embarked on a remarkable career in the civil service that spanned three decades. Starting as a GS3 Clerk Typist, her journey in civil service led her to various locations, both near and far, offering her unique opportunities to immerse herself in diverse regions and cultures around the world. Freda's dedication to her career saw her attain her bachelor's degree at the University of New Hampshire. Notably, she was honored with the Air Force Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) award for her outstanding contributions to affirmative employment programs while stationed at Pease Air Force Base (AFB). Later, Freda transitioned to the Department of Defense Tiger Team, where she played a pivotal role in resolving issues within Department of Defense (DoD) systems across the nation, as well as participating in the accounting recovery actions at Homestead AFB in Homestead, FL, following Hurricane Andrew in 1992.

Throughout her career, Freda's assignments led her to various locations, including Langley AFB in Hampton, VA; Pope Field at Fort Bragg in Fayetteville, NC; Lowry AFB in Denver, CO; Charleston AFB in Charleston, SC; and the National Capitol Region in Washington, DC. During her tenure in Charleston, Freda successfully completed her master’s degree at the University of Phoenix. By the time of her retirement in 2001, she had achieved the esteemed position of GS14 Accountant.

An avid adventurer, Freda’s insatiable curiosity and open-mindedness led her to embrace the path less traveled, always seeking new challenges and opportunities for growth. She observed the good in others as she sought to spread love and joy to all that met her.

Beyond her love for travel, Freda’s zest for life extended to every aspect of her being. She was a devoted companion, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering optimism touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. She was ever ready for any occasion, whether it was a family gathering, hosting guests, or lending a hand to those in need. Her repertoire of talents was vast, encompassing sewing, crafting handmade greeting cards, cooking, and beyond. She selflessly utilized her talents to spread kindness and joy to those around her.

Freda remained a steadfast member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church, actively participating in the Women’s Group and dedicating her time as a volunteer Office Manager. Additionally, she committed herself to the South Carolina Guardian ad Litem program, where she initially served as a volunteer before transitioning to employment. In this role, Freda tirelessly advocated for the welfare and best interests of abused and neglected children in her community.

Freda was preceded in death by her husband Charles Miller and her parents Hadley and Lillian Caulder.

Freda is survived by her devoted friend, Claire Godbout, as well as her daughter, Charlotte Emery (Randy), of Chesterfield, South Carolina, and her son, Chuck Miller (Carol), of Rapid City, South Dakota.

She is also survived by her sisters, Nancy Cauthen (Alvin) of Rockingham, North Carolina; Darlene Wright (Tommy) and Trudy Hancock (Otto) both of Chesterfield, South Carolina; and her brothers, Tommy Caulder and Timmy Caulder (Diane) both of Chesterfield, South Carolina.

Freda is survived by (6) grandchildren – Clara, Ollie, Orey, Justin, Sam, and Lilly – along with countless nieces and nephews.

Freda was a kind person who appreciated all that life gave her. She lived a life full of wonderful experiences alongside a loving family and many good friends. She truly embodied the adage of a life well lived. May she rest in peace, knowing that her life was truly a gift to us.

A viewing will be held on Wednesday, April 17^th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Miller-Rivers-Caulder Funeral Home | 318 E Main Street, Chesterfield, SC 29709. The funeral service will be held the following day (Thursday, April 18^th) at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter’s Catholic Church | 602 Market Street, Cheraw SC 29520

In lieu of flowers, friends who wish to honor Freda's memory are welcome to make donations to the St. Peter’s Catholic Church Maintenance Fund and/or Prayer Garden. Your contributions will help sustain the church and its sacred spaces, continuing Freda's legacy of devotion and community support.

Miller-Rivers-Caulder Funeral Home (www.mrcfuneralhome.com) of Chesterfield, SC is serving the Miller family.