With heavy hearts and cherished memories, we announce the peaceful passing of Freda Hamill Rothschild, aged 90, on July 5, 2026, at Hudson Valley Hospice House in Hyde Park, surrounded by love.

Born on March 6, 1936, in Birkenhead, England, Freda was a beacon of resilience, love, and selflessness, touching the lives of all who knew her. Freda was the beloved daughter of Lily Payne and James Hamill, who instilled in her the values of compassion and strength. She was preceded in death by her parents, her siblings — Jimmy, George, Lily, Iris, and Edna — and her husband, Alan Rothschild, whom she married on February 20, 1965, in White Plains, NY, just six weeks after their first meeting. Their love story was one of spontaneity and deep connection, serving as a foundation for the family they cherished.

Freda's professional journey was diverse and fulfilling. She worked at Cadbury's Chocolate Factory, then at Littlewoods, in England, a job she truly loved and later at JCPenney, where her kindness shone through to customers and colleagues alike. She worked at several nursing homes, where she provided comfort and care to those in need. Her most treasured role was that of a Mother, Grandmother, and Matriarch. Freda had an extraordinary ability to bring her family together, orchestrating birthday celebrations and holiday gatherings with a warmth that made every moment memorable.

Freda's legacy lives on through her family, who were her pride and joy. She is survived by her loving children: Les Massey and his wife Dawn of Stanthorpe, Australia, Karen Rothschild and her fiancé Paul of Wappingers Falls, NY, Laura Kolor and her husband Paul of Wappingers Falls, NY, and Tina Rothschild of Collegeville, PA. Her grandchildren Morgan, Clayton, Samantha, Mark, Lauren, and her newly found grandchildren Rhian and Dan brought immense joy to her life, as did her six great-grandchildren.

In her spare time, Freda was known for her infectious giggle and her ability to make everyone feel cared for. Her life was a testament to resilience, she endured the challenges of World War II as a child in England, yet she emerged with a spirit that was as unyielding as it was gentle. Her journey alone to immigrate to the United States was yet another way she showed her strength. 

Freda’s family extends their deepest gratitude to the angels on earth at Hudson Valley Hospice and Hudson Valley Hospice House, whose compassion and care brought comfort to Freda and her loved ones in her final days. A special thank you to Hospice music therapist Lauren, who touched Freda in a truly heartfelt way. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hudson Valley Hospice, a cause close to Freda’s heart, ensuring that the kindness she received can be shared with others.

As we say goodbye to a remarkable woman, we celebrate a life lived with dignity, love, and boundless generosity. Freda’s legacy is one of love and laughter, and while she may be gone from our sight, she will forever remain in our hearts.

Family and friends will gather on Thursday, July 9, 2026 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Straub, Catalano & Halvey Funeral Home, 55 East Main Street in Wappingers Falls. A funeral service will be held at 5:30 p.m. during the visitation.

To send the family a personal condolence, please visit our website at www.StraubCatalanoHalvey.com.