Frieda Belle Fernandez, 91, of Granite City, IL died on Friday, June 20, 2025 at Gateway Regional Medical Center in Granite City, IL.

She was born on November 23, 1933 in East St. Louis, IL to George Zelbert Hayden and Martha Ann (Shelton) Hayden.

Frieda married Manuel Fernandez in Osceola, MO on September 28, 1948.  He preceded her in death on August 20, 1997.

The loving mother and grandmother retired from Gateway Hospital, formally St. Elizabeth Hospital, in Granite City after 37 years of service as a medical secretary. Frieda attended Unity Baptist Church in Granite City.  She enjoyed traveling and spending time with family and friends.  Frieda was such a people person.  Her house was always full and she enjoyed cooking for everyone.  Holidays were very special for her and she especially enjoyed Christmas with her family and friends.

Frieda is survived by 8 children:  Kathy Ann (Danny) King of Collinsville, Brenda Joyce Taylor of Granite City, Jovita Gail (Emanuel) Fernandez of Caseyville, Gary Lee (Sherri Colbert)) Fernandez of Granite City, Reba Faye (Michael) Watkins of Granite City, Anita Fernandez of Granite City, Maria Kim Slaton of Granite City and Joel Fernandez of TN; 19 grandchildren; 36 great grandchildren; son in law, Dennis Smith of New Douglas; a brother in law, Gene Nadler of Cahokia, IL and many extended family members.

Besides her husband and parents, Frieda is preceded in death by a son, Robert Joe Fernandez; a daughter, Tina Rena Smith; 2 grandchildren:  Joshua Carpenter and Maxwell Eberlin; a son in law, Mike Slaton; 4 brothers:  Truman Hayden, Lloyd Hayden, Harley Hayden and Ivan Hayden and a sister, Frances Nadler.

The family will hold a memorial visitation from 10:30 a.m. until time of service at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 26, 2025 at Unity Baptist Church in Granite City, IL.  Burial will follow at St. John Cemetery in Collinsville, IL.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Unity Baptist Church or charity of one's choice.

Professional services entrusted to the care of Wojstrom Funeral Home & Crematory in Granite City, IL.

Online guestbook and obituary available at www.wojstrom.com