Stamford “Fred” Hoston

Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Stamford “Fred” Hoston is a lifelong resident of the city with deep family roots in the DMV area. Fred was interviewed at Saints Paradise Church, where he shared stories from his upbringing in a large, religious family of eight children. His parents, originally from West Virginia, worked as a truck driver and a typist at the Census Bureau. Though food in the household was simple and often unseasoned, Fred fondly recalled the central role ice cream played in his childhood—his father worked at an ice cream plant, and his mother became known in the neighborhood for handing out ice cream, candy, and showing movies at their corner house. Fred described a tight-knit community shaped by faith, music, and modest means, where love outweighed material wealth. He also spoke about his involvement at the Hayes Senior Wellness Center, his love for basketball, and the importance of routine and movement in staying active as a senior.