Frederick Douglass Casher Jr.'s Obituary
Frederick Douglass Casher, Jr. of Jackson, Mississippi - lovingly known to many of his peers as "Drake" and to many professional associates as "F.D." - passed away peacefully on December 26, 2025, at the age of 79. A devoted husband, educator, coach, mentor, and friend, Frederick's life reflected a deep commitment to faith, family, and the empowerment of others through education and example.
Born on June 12, 1946, in Weathersby, Mississippi (Magee), Frederick was the son of the late Frederick Douglass Casher, Sr. and Dovie Mae Casher. Growing up, he was blessed to have the love and nurture of Luaious Jaynes "Mome" and Hezikeh Jaynes, who he respected as "parents." The bond between Frederick's father, mother and second set of parents allowed Frederick to live a life immersed in love and support. As a close-knit family, these parents instilled the value of hard work and integrity in their loved ones. Frederick carried those principles throughout his life and career.
F.D. was preceded in death by his brothers, Archie Casher and Stanley Casher. He is survived by his devoted wife, Gloria Casher; sons, Derrick Aaron Casher, Frederick D. Casher, III (Valerie) and Richard Gary (Nikki); sister, Herdesene Garrett; brothers, Cedric Casher and Dedric Casher; nieces, Kim Krems (Steve), Stephanie Casher-Lewis (James)and Victoria Casher; nephews, Eric Garrett, Eric Casher (Susana) and Bill Casher (Jessica); and stepmother, Lynette Spencer Casher.
Frederick's education and career path were deeply rooted in his love of learning and leadership. As a student, he attended Jackson State Laboratory School and graduated from Jim Hill High School, where he was a standout athlete and starter for the state-champions-basketball team during his senior year. Continuing his education at Knoxville College, he played for the men's basketball team before earning an undergraduate degree in history from Jackson State University. He later pursued graduate studies at Mississippi College and Jackson State University, obtaining a specialist degree in educational administration.
F.D.'s teaching career began in Greenwood, Mississippi, at Amanda Elzy Junior High School and later, Bankston Junior High School, where he began his journey as a passionate educator and coach. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Gloria Jackson. They soon began a partnership filled with love, purpose, and a shared devotion to education and community. Together, they moved to Jackson where they continued their careers as educators and enjoyed over 60 glorious years of family life.
In Jackson, Frederick made an indelible mark at several schools, beginning as a teacher and coach at Callaway High School, and later joining Brinkley Junior High, where he earned the title "Coach Casher." He guided teams in basketball, football, and track to numerous city championships. His leadership and dedication to his students extended beyond the athletic field; he was a mentor who helped shape boys into men and generations of young people into confident leaders. Advancing into administration, he served as Assistant Principal at Bailey High School and Murrah High School, and then Principal at Callaway High School. Frederick concluded his distinguished career as Principal of Duling High School.
A faithful member of Pearl Street AME Church, Frederick served as a steward and Sunday school teacher, became a member of the men's choir and golf team, and was an active participant in the communities' programs. His civic and professional involvement included membership in the National Education Association (NEA), Mississippi Association of Educators (MAE), Mississippi Association of Coaches (MAC) and United States Tennis Association (USTA). He also volunteered with the American Red Cross as an emergency responder and spent time working for Habitat for Humanity and the Hinds County Head Start Board.
In retirement, Frederick's competitive spirit and zest for life thrived and never waned. As a former athlete, he found joy and passion on the golf course and even won the USTA "Men's Dou-ble" title while competing on the tennis court. Traveling across Mississippi with Gloria, they celebrated their life together, and cherished adventures with their family, particularly, those trips that were alongside his sister, Herdesene and brother, Stanley.
Frederick Douglass Casher, Jr. will be remembered as a reserved man of principle filled with passion and strength who exemplified dedication and love in every role he embodied. He will forever be missed as a husband, father, mentor, and friend. As he often said to young people, "Think you can, think you can't, either way, you are right." His belief in the power of spirit and perseverance lives on in all those who knew him.
The Casher family extends their heartfelt appreciation to all those celebrating the life and legacy of Frederick Douglass Casher, Jr. His energy remains with us speak his name and let his light continue to guide and inspire.
What’s your fondest memory of Frederick?
What’s a lesson you learned from Frederick?
Share a story where Frederick's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Frederick you’ll never forget.
How did Frederick make you smile?