Preston "Pete" Fregia, a beloved member of the Liberty County community, left this world on February 24, 2025, at the age of 76. Born on April 15, 1948, in Dayton, Texas, Pete lived a life rich in love, laughter, and a deep connection to the cowboy lifestyle that shaped his identity.
Pete’s career in the oil fields was more than just a job; it was a reflection of his strong work ethic and commitment to providing for his family. However, what he cherished most were the relationships he built during his life. Known affectionately as "Pistol Pete," he never met a stranger. He had a unique ability to make everyone feel welcome, sharing his warmth and humor with anyone he encountered. His infectious enthusiasm for life led him to ride bulls, embodying the fearless spirit of those who live on the edge. Whether he was telling a story or cracking a joke, his gentle ways ensured those around him knew they were loved.
Pete loved all his children—Johnny Earl Fregia and his wife Micki Jo of Batson, Texas, Patricia "Bubbles" Elliott and her husband Marvin of Hull, Texas, and Terry Don Fregia and his wife Wendy of Liberty, Texas. He deeply loved each of them and took great joy in watching them thrive.
His love extended beyond biological ties, embracing a multitude of bonus children: Dedra Berryhill and her husband Kevin of Batson, Texas, Raymond Hickman and his wife Melissa of Ohio, Charlie Key and his wife Crystal of Hardin, Texas, Jason Taylor, Bubba Holder and Daryl Keith Taylor. He shared countless memories and took pride in his ever-growing family, which included 14 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
Family gatherings were filled with laughter and the undeniable spirit of Pete, who was known to cut a rug on the dance floor, embodying the very essence of celebration and joy. He was a true legend in many hearts, and his cowboy spirit inspired everyone he met. He remained connected to his roots in Liberty County throughout his life, where he was raised and ultimately chose to stay.
Pete is survived by his loving and devoted wife Sissy Fregia of Raywood, Texas; brother, Nathan and wife Ernestine Fregia of Liberty, Texas; sister, Ida Faye Fregia of Liberty, Texas; sister-in-law, Helen Gilbreath and her husband James of Como, Texas; and brother-in-law, James Peak of Liberty, Texas. His memory will live on through numerous nieces, nephews, and a tight-knit group of lifelong friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Jack Fregia; mother, Ethel Fregia; brother, David Fregia; sister, Marie Taylor; sister-in-law, Margaret Bird; and brother-in-law, Mike Bird. While Pete has departed from this earthly plane, the profound impact he made on those around him will forever echo in their hearts.
Visitation will take place at Faith & Family Funeral Services in Batson, Texas, on February 27, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, followed by a funeral service on February 28, 2025, at 10:00 AM with his grandson, Coby Trent Elliott officiating. His burial will follow at Hardin Chapel Cemetery in Hardin, Texas, Pete's gentle spirit and indomitable heart will be profoundly missed, but cherished memories will keep his legacy alive for generations to come.
Honoring Pete as pallbearers are Sam Elliott, Cooper Fregia, Tyler Fregia, Andrew Fregia, Garrett Hickman, Bubba Holder and Jason Taylor. Honorary Pallbearers are Raymond Hickman, Charlie Key, Daryl Keith Taylor, Koty Ainsworth, Kameron Holder and Brandon Shellhammer.
In the tapestry of life, Pete Fregia was truly one of a kind—a true cowboy to the very end, embraced by the cherished memories he leaves behind. His gentle ways, laughter, and generous heart will echo through the lives he touched, forever reminding us to enjoy our lives to the fullest, just as he did.
The reception to follow the burial will be at The 770 Club in Raywood, Texas. Any food that is served cold can be dropped off Thursday evening at The 770 Club. If it is warm food, please plan to drop off Friday morning starting at 8:00 am at The 770 Club. The food will need to remain warm, so they don't have to reheat food prior to the family’s arrival.