OXFORD, AL – The City of Oxford is mourning the passing of Fred Denney, who served as the city’s project manager for the past two decades and played a central role in many of the community’s most significant public projects.
Denney spoke about his commitment to Oxford in a July 2024 interview with Oxford Access, reflecting on his continued service at the age of 85.
“I enjoy my work and I think I’m accomplishing something,” Denney said at the time. “It’s my city, too. That’s why I’ve done all these things. I want to see my city have the best and have what it needs. As long as I know I’m contributing, I’ll stay here.”
During his tenure, Denney was instrumental in securing funding and guiding projects to completion, including the construction of the new Oxford Police Station, the Oxford Performing Arts Center, renovations to the Oxford Civic Center, the Bynum Community Center, downtown sidewalk improvements, and numerous road projects.
Denney began his career immediately after high school, working for Alabama Power for 19 years before operating his own electrical contracting business for 24 years. His service to the City of Oxford began in 2007, when then-Mayor Leon Smith asked him to serve as project manager for the construction of the new police station.
He later described his approach to the role by saying, “If it’s being done for Oxford, it needs to be done right.”
In addition to his professional career, Denney had a long record of civic and community involvement. He achieved the rank of lieutenant colonel in the National Guard and previously served as president of both the Anniston Jaycees and the Oxford Lions Club. He was also deeply involved in his church, where he served as an elder at Betta View Hills Church of Christ.
Reflecting on his decision to accept that role, Denney once said, “They offered me that job and I didn’t really think I was qualified. I hated to turn it down because I got to thinking about meeting the Good Lord and Him asking why I didn’t do any work at His place.”
Oxford Mayor Alton Craft issued a statement honoring Denney’s legacy and service.
“The Oxford of today is a monument to the work and devotion of Fred Denney for the city he loved and served so well,” Craft said. “We have lost not only a valued employee, but a treasured friend. I and the city council, on behalf of our entire community, offer our love and prayers to his family.”
UPDATE: The funeral for Fred Denney will be 12/17/25 at 2 p.m. at Betta View Hills Church of Christ.
