Frederick G. Getty

Frederick George Getty, 82, of Middlebrook, a distinguished gentleman whose life was marked by service, passion, and dedication, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 25, 2024, at Augusta Health in Fishersville.

He was born on October 29, 1941, in New York City to the late Herman William Ahern Getty and Mary Justine Mallick Getty.

A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Frederick saw service stationed in Bermuda and at Guantanamo Bay. His commitment to his country exemplified the qualities of bravery and duty that defined his character throughout his life.

Frederick's spirit truly came alive in his interests and hobbies, where he excelled as a Master and Huntsman of the Hounds and a long-standing member of the Middlebrook Hounds Hunt Club. His love for the fox chase was paralleled only by his passion for fishing and big game hunting, pursuits that allowed him to forge deep connections with nature. An impeccable judge of horseflesh, he not only bred Irish Sport horses but also rode with skill and grace, showcasing his affinity for these magnificent animals.

In addition to his equestrian pursuits, Fred was an avid participant in sporting clay shoots with the Blue Ridge Shooters Club, an activity that spoke to his competitive nature and keen eye for detail, qualities that also flourished in his talent as a writer.

He was a member of Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Staunton.

Frederick leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory. He is survived by his devoted wife, Mary Ann Schimanski Getty; his daughter Deborah Mary Getty Riley and her husband Edward, his sons, Frederick John Getty and his wife, Christine, Christopher Edward Getty and his wife, Michelle, and Daniel Francis Getty; and his grandchildren, Frederick, Mary Helen, Rachel, Kaitlyn, and Colton Getty and Edward C. Riley, III.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Michele Terese Getty, his sister Anne Getty McCloskey and brother William Getty.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, October 31, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM at Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Waynesboro. A funeral mass will immediately follow with the Reverend Tom Collins officiating.

Interment will follow in the family plot at Thornrose Cemetery in Staunton.