Ferdinand A. Slayden

Ferdinand Alfred Slayden, Jr., passed away with family by his side, on Tuesday, 2 June 2020, in Kingwood Medical Center at the age of 69. 

Fred was born on December 17, 1950 in Dallas Texas.  At the age of 18, he enlisted into the United States Army.  He served in Vietnam and achieved the rank of Sergeant.  He than began his training to become a pipe welder in the oil and gas field.  He loved being a welder and traveled often for his job.  Fred was always a hard worker and believed in doing fine quality work the first time.  He loved his family and friends and would do anything to help anyone that asked.  He certainly had a mischievous side and loved to tease or prank anyone who gave him an opportunity to do so.  He especially loved his grandchildren. He was never one to share his feelings often or openly, but when talking about his grandchildren there was always a twinkle in his eyes that gave away his pride and love for them. 

Fred will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandpa. He was always busy. Whether he was working on a car, his home or yard, or at the job, Fred was always working on something. And when the sun went down, he was ready to play.  He enjoyed winning in card games and dominoes.  He had a competitive spirit including games against kids.  If they won, they certainly earned it. One could even say, he may have broken a rule or two to ensure he dominated.

Fred was preceded in death by, his parents, Ferdinand Alfred Slayden and Ruby Jewell (Stephens) Slayden, his brother Tommy Slayden, and his eldest son, Ferdinand Alfred Slayden, III. 

Fred is survived by his wife Cynthia Slayden of Crosby, TX; his son and wife, Chris and Michelle Slayden of Elizabethtown, KY; his step-son and wife, Rodney and Karri Soileau of Huffman, TX; his step-daughter and husband Anna and Chuck Reeves of Houston, TX; his 6 grand children Justin, Riley, and Cameron Slayden, Cole Stahl and Zoey Soileau, and Eda Soileau; his surviving siblings Donnie Slayden, KS; George Stephens, Tool, TX; and Donna Weeks, Flint, TX; and multiple nieces, nephews, and other extended family.

At his request, please do not send flowers.  Donations made in his honor to veteran support organizations are welcome. 

Services will be held on Monday,8 June. Visitation is from 10:00-12:00, services 12:00-1:00, and burial 1:00-2:00 at Sterling-White Funeral Home.