Frederica J. McGaha, 66
After a 7-year battle with lung cancer, Frederica J. McGaha died on January 7, 2022 in Camden, Del. at the age of 66. She leaves behind her husband of 43 years, Lawson McGaha; her daughters, Tina Hutson, Chrissy Blessing, Nikki McGaha and Dawn Mejia; her son, David McGaha; 14 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Ricky to some, Freddie to many others, was born on July 12, 1955 in Dover, Del., to her father Frederick Coppock and mother Ellen Joyce Coppock. She grew up in a large family with four sisters and two brothers; she leaves behind two sisters, Jennifer Dill and Allyson Kulhanek; two brothers, Frederick and Stephen Coppock; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; and her sisters, Kathleen Coppock and Debra Cimo.
Ricky, married Lawson McGaha on August 12, 1978 in Wilmington, Del. They relocated to a 10-acre farm outside of Camden, Del. where they raised their five children. Dedication came easy to Ricky; she worked for DelDOT for 21 years. She retired in 2018 just to return as a part-time employee months later and worked there until her passing. Ricky was also a staple at the Smyrna Diner for a decade. She was a part-time waitress in the community for over 25 years and she enjoyed making people smile with laughter and good food.
Despite her illness, Ricky always put her family first. Her pride and joy was giving her grandchildren experiences that she never had like vacations at the lake house, amusement parks, state fairs and Disney World. She spoiled them rotten every chance she could. Ultimately, Ricky wanted nothing more than to see her grandchildren grow. When diagnosed with lung cancer in 2014, her sole purpose was dedicated to fighting her illness. She remained a brave, iron-willed woman, even throughout her final moments.
Her services will be held Sunday, January 16, 2022 at 10 a.m. at Torbert Funeral Chapel, 1145 E. Lebanon Road, Dover. A reception will follow at the DelVets; all are welcome.
The family would especially like to thank Dr. Singh and the nurses of the KGH Oncology Department for their excellent work and loving care.
In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to The Lung Cancer Research Foundation or to Delaware Hospice.