Fred Adair Stearns

Fred Adair “Señor” Stearns passed away Tuesday, July 30th at the age of 84, surrounded by his friends and family. He was a much-beloved husband, educator, parent and grandfather whose memory will remain eternal in the hearts and minds of those who knew and loved him.

Fred was born April 24, 1940 in Montgomery, AL. He was preceded in death by his parents Roy and Regina Stearns, his 6 brothers George Berry, Cecil Roy, Thomas Harold, James Howard, Sam Britton & Earl Foster Stearns.

Fred married Janeth Parker Meadows on February 6, 1976. They loved to travel and spend time with their friends, but they are most fondly remembered for their excellent hospitality. As hosts, they were always warm and inviting, and would always make their hearth and home available for innumerable family gatherings. He loved to spend as much time as possible with his loved ones, especially his grandchildren.

Fred is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Janeth Stearns, two sons, three step-children: Jeffrey Todd Stearns (Sharon), and Bradford Lee Stearns. His stepdaughter, Catherine Harris (Sammy), and his stepsons James Carl Meadows and Robert McLeod Meadows (Celie). Fred was known affectionately as “Papa Fred” to his 8 grandchildren; Spencer, JT, Rachel, Francie, James, Liz, Carly, Courtney, and his 8 great-grandchildren.

Fred attended Howard College/Samford University, and would earn his Masters of Education from Auburn University. Fred also served in the Alabama Air National Guard as an enlisted intelligence analyst. He was a regularly attending member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church.

Fred devoted his career to Education. As a teacher of the Spanish language, Fred taught at Andalusia High School and would go on to teach at Opelika High School for over 30 years. After retiring from the Opelika Public School System, he would teach at Lee Scott Academy. Over his long and storied career, his students knew him as their beloved “Señor Stearns.”

Fred was an avid golfer who loved his time on the green. For Fred, it wasn’t just about the game, it was about the time spent with his friends. He was a fan of the University of Alabama football team, and a collector of Spanish cultural items and Case knives. He took great pride in his immaculately kept yard and garden. Fred was a well-read and studied intellectual. He had a vast wealth of knowledge in various subjects and was an excellent conversationalist. He would always refer to his beloved wife, Janeth, as his angel. He was always grateful and friendly towards his devoted caregivers and family.

A memorial service will be held in the chapel at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home on Saturday, August 3rd, 2024 beginning at 2:00 PM CST. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to Emmanuel Episcopal Church or the charity of your choice.