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Fredricka D. Custer went home to the Lord on Sept. 21 at the Regency House in Wallingford. Affectionately known as “Freddie,” she was born in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, on March 8, 1930, to the late Francis A. Dunn and Mary Mentzer Dunn.

Freddie graduated in 1952 from Bucknell University with degrees in both Spanish and psychology. An avid horsewoman, Freddie spent many years at her farm in Cheshire working with young thoroughbred horses off the track, her broodmares, and their babies. She had wonderful way with horses. Freddie also loved to garden, bake, cook, and spend time with her family and grandchildren. She was always accompanied by at least one dog by her side.

Freddie was predeceased by her three sisters, Betty Conway, Julia Howells, and Mary Francis Dunn. Upon the death of her beloved husband Benjamin F. Custer in 1996, she moved to Northford to be closer to her children, and worked at Vinny’s Home and Garden Center for 10 years. There she made many friends through her cheerful nature and friendly smile.

Freddie is survived by her three children, Mark R. Custer (Joanne) of Hamden, Scott B. Custer (Sally) of South Windsor, and Susan C. Blue (Chet) of Northford. She is also survived by her four grandchildren, Ben Custer and MaryKate Custer of South Windsor, Chet Blue iv (Christine) of Killingworth, and Lauren Blue of Northford. Freddie also is survived by many other nieces and nephews from the Johnstown and Bethlehem areas.

A private service of memorial was held at her daughter’s home on Oct. 6, which would have been Freddie and Benjamin’s 66th wedding anniversary. Donations may be sent to the Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter at http://branfordanimalshelter.org.