Freda L. (Fleetwood) Gifford, age 75 of Defiance, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at Kingston Care Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She was born in Hartville, Missouri on July 19, 1948 to the late Burl and Dorothy (Wimberly) Lawson. On November 11, 2022 she married Timothy Gifford who survives. Freda poured her heart and soul into raising her children. She was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She enjoyed reading, being outdoors and enjoying nature. Spending time with her children and grandchildren was always her priority. Freda is survived by her loving husband Timothy Gifford of Ft. Wayne, IN, and her children, Wade (Melody) Deming, Jr. of New Haven, IN, Mike (Carrie) Deming of Sandusky, OH, Tonya Jacob of Defiance, Misty (Eric) Alexander of Oakwood, OH, and Dawn (Jeff) Vanhorn of New Haven, IN. She also leaves behind 16 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and her siblings, Carol Medina, Robert (Susan) Lawson, Guy (Barb) Lawson and Jack Lawson, all of Defiance, and Jimmy Lawson of Florida. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Onita Bussing, Phylis Bussing and Doris Lawson. Visitation will be held on Monday, June 10, 2024 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 pm at the funeral home, with Celebrant Deb Miller officiating. Freda will be laid to rest at Riverside Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Heartland Hospice. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.