BORN

1927

DIED

2013

FUNERAL HOME

Parkway Funeral Home and Memorial Park

1161 Highland Colony Pkwy

Ridgeland, Mississippi

Herman Freeman Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Oct. 11, 2013.

Herman Freeman, 85, passed away on October 8, 2013 after a courageous 19 month battle with cancer. For the past 9 years, Herman's home has been Olive Branch, Mississippi. Prior to that time he spent the majority of his life in Jackson, Mississippi. For anyone who knew Herman, it's likely you used words like integrity, compassion, kindness, and patience to describe Herman's gentle spirit.

Herman is survived by his wife Mary Abigail Henley Freeman, daughter Deb Freeman West and her husband Garnett, daughter Ann Freeman Gilbert and her husband Louis, grandchildren Hunter Bryant Gilbert, Amanda Leigh Gilbert, Mary Abigail West, Garnett Bert West III and his wife Keri, Jason Blair West and his wife Erin, sister Etta Vera Seago and her husband D.G., and many nieces and nephews. Herman was preceded in death by his parents Clarence and Blanche Johnson Freeman, stepfather Louis Smith, paternal grandparents J.W. (Jack) and Ary Freeman, maternal grandparents George (Smiley) and Nettie Brown Johnson, in-laws John Bryant and Josephine (Jo) Haynes Henley, grandson Eric West, and numerous uncles, aunts, and cousins.

Herman was born December 28, 1927 in Pike County, Mississippi, to Clarence and Blanche Johnson Freeman. He was educated at Johnston Station, Jones Consolidated, and graduated from Fernwood High School. He attended Southwest Mississippi Community College and then obtained a Bachelor of Science as well as Master of Science in Entomology from Mississippi State University. After graduation Herman served his country in the United States Air Force and received an honorable discharge after 3 years of service.

Herman's priorities during his life were his faith, his family, and his occupation as a State Farm Insurance Agent. The importance of his faith in Jesus Christ was demonstrated by a lifelong involvement and commitment to his local church. While in Jackson, Herman served in many leadership capacities at Leavell Woods United Methodist Church. He chaired the Administrative Board, the Staff-Parish Relations Committee, the Finance Committee, the Council on Ministries, and was a certified Lay Speaker. He was also involved with the United Methodist Men's Club and taught an adult Sunday School class. In Olive Branch, Herman was an active member of Getwell Road United Methodist Church, serving as president of his Sunday School Class, membership on the Board of Trustees, Administrative Council, and the Men's Prayer Group.

It was no secret that after his faith, the most important thing in Herman's life was his family. He and Mary Gail enjoyed 58 wonderful years of marriage and were blessed with two daughters who were his pride and joy. That happiness extended throughout his entire life as "Grandy" treasured relationships with grandchildren, extended family, and close friends.

Herman began his professional career with Olin Corporation, selling and consulting with customers about agricultural chemicals. In 1956, he began a successful career as a State Farm Insurance Agent in Jackson, Mississippi. During his 47 year career, he qualified for almost every award available at State Farm. His most cherished honor was having been selected as a Lifetime Member of the President's Club which is awarded for outstanding, balanced production. It was a joy for him to serve his customers, most of whom considered him a friend.

Herman cared about his community as well. Most recently, he served on the Board of Directors of Wesley Meadows Retirement Community. He was a charter member of the South Jackson Rotary Club and was honored with the "Paul Harris Fellow" award. Herman was also instrumental in establishing the United Methodist South Jackson Cluster and chaired the group for many years.

The family would like to extend sincere appreciation for the care received from Dr. David Sullivan and the entire staff of the Southaven Family Cancer Center, Senior Care Services, and Unity Hospice.

A service celebrating Herman's life will be held at 12:00pm on Saturday, October 12 at Wright and Ferguson Funeral Home (1161 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, MS 39157). The family will receive friends from 10:00am until the time of the service. There will also be a service on Sunday, October 13 at 2:30pm at Getwell Road United Methodist Church (7875 Getwell Road, Southaven, MS 38672) with a time of fellowship with the family afterwards.

Services will be officiated by Bishop Clay Lee, Reverend Bill Beavers, Reverend Martin Case, and Reverend Henderson Rasberry. Pallbearers are Hunter Gilbert, Bert West, Jason West, John David Thomas, Matthew Thomas, Brian Jones, Will Jones, and Fowler Jones.

Memorials may be made to Getwell Road United Methodist Church (7875 Getwell Road, Southaven, MS 38672), Leavell Woods United Methodist Church (3302 Terry Road, Jackson, MS 39212), or Methodist Senior Services (Post Office Box 1567, Tupelo, MS 38802).

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Herman Freeman

What is your first memory of Herman?

Share a favorite memory you have of Herman.

Tell us about a special moment you shared with Herman.

Describe a time when Herman made you laugh or smile.

What is something you will always remember about Herman?

Talk about a shared experience you had with Herman.

What is something you did together that you enjoyed?

Describe a place or activity that reminds you of Herman.

Tell us about a personal story or anecdote involving Herman.

What is something you learned from Herman?

Not sure what to say?

July 18, 2014

Sorry to hear this, he was truly a fine man. Had lost touch, we were neighbors in Jackson years ago and had been my insurance agent as well. Mike Kanosky (Jackson)

October 15, 2013

Van Wilson

Mrs. Freeman, Ann & Debbie,
Mr. Freeman was a very good Christian man. Very good memories of him and you all growing up in Leavell Woods Church. He will definitely be missed, but we all know he is in a much better place. Praying for all of you.

October 14, 2013

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

Wesley Meadows Board of Directors

October 12, 2013

Jackie Green

The best insurance man in the world. What a huge loss! He was our first insurance agent some 29 years ago...always pleasant, kind, and helpful...I can only pray that he will be one of those who rises first when Jesus returns. God bless you all!

October 12, 2013

Sharon & Robert DeStefano

Our hearts are saddened and we will miss Herman. We loved Herman, but he was very easy to love. His life was a testimony and an example for all of us. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time.

October 12, 2013

Lavern Hardin

So sorry but did not know until this morning about 10:30. Praying for your family. Lavern Wallace Hardin, Aunt Ruby's daughter.

October 12, 2013

Lavern Wallace Hardin

Mary and family, I just found out about Herman this morning. Ruth saw it in the paper so I couldn't make it to the Jackson service and don't think we will make it to Olive Branch. I loved him even though I didn't come visit. Love you and give the girls my love and Etta.

October 12, 2013

William D (Chip) Sanders

In his personal life, his family life, and his professional business life, Herman Freeman was a GIANT among men. He gave me my first job at age 12, putting State Farm insurance fliers on windshields in a local shopping center parking lot at a penny a piece, and some 55 years later at age 67 I'm still with State Farm. Herman did not just "go to Church." His life exuded his Christian principals. Some people cut moral and ethical corners to become successful. Not so with Herman Freeman. He became one of the top and most admired State Farm Agents in the entire United States, and he did it "the right way," morally, professionally, and ethically. From time to time in my career, when I was unsure how to handle a particular problem or sensitive issue, I've caught myself thinking, "How would Herman handle that?" Mary, Ann, & Deb: Dad always told us that Herman was his favorite agent. They had a special relationship - but Herman was my mentor and my hero. We'll all miss him so much.

October 12, 2013

Martha & Larry Miley

Mrs. Freeman and Family: Larry and I are so sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Freeman. He was compassionate and friendly to all he met. We think about the 2 of you a lot and have missed seeing you around Jackson. He will be greatly missed. Prayers are with all of you at this sad time.

October 12, 2013

Mary, Debbie and Ann, I have the sweetest memories of many State Farm gatherings when the Freemans and the Jenkins' families were together! I always remember Herman's gentle, kind spirit. We certainly had fun back in those days. Mama and Daddy are unable to be with you today due to their own health decline. They loved you all. Keith and I will be at the service and hope to see you. Our love and prayers during this time of grief and celebration of a life well lived. To God be the Glory. Jan Michaels

October 12, 2013

May the God of comfort grant you comfort at this difficult time.

October 12, 2013

May God give you Comfort.

October 12, 2013

Bill & Gwen Duckworth

Mrs. Freeman and Family,
We were sadden and sorry to learn of Mr. Herman's death. He was a man well loved and respected by all who knew him. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

October 11, 2013

God is near to those that are broken at heart and those crushed in spirit. God will sustain you and help you to endure.

October 11, 2013

Tommy Jolly

So sorry to hear about Herman. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Sally and Tommy Jolly.

October 11, 2013

Mary and family,
Jimmy and I were so saddened on hearing of the death of Herman. He was truly a wonderful, loving man. He will be missed greatly.
Jimmy and Sarah Duckworth. Huntsville, Al.

October 11, 2013

Joy Wilson Matthews

"My deepest sympathy to Mrs. Freeman, Debbie, and Ann. Herman was so kind and friendly to everyone. I know he will be greatly missed."

October 11, 2013

The Staff of Wright & Ferguson Funeral Home-Parkway Memorial Cemetery

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

October 11, 2013

My deepest sympathy to you Mary Gail, Debbie, and Ann. He was truly a special person. He was kind and gentle and always had time to talk to you and make you feel very special. That made him special. I know you will miss him very much, but you are blessed to have had so many wonderful days with him. I send you all my love. Debby Rutledge, Hernando, MS

October 11, 2013

Jeri Beasley

Such a good man will certainly be missed by a lot of people. Mary, Deb, and Ann, you are in my thoughts and prayers.

October 11, 2013

Bridgett de Gruy

I wish I could be there to express my sympathy in person and give you a hug. Mrs. Mary Gail, Debbie, and Ann, please know that you are all in my prayers. Mr. Herman was such a sweet and gentle man.

October 11, 2013

DIANE ODOM

I have known Mr. Freeman & Mrs. Mary for many years. My Heart goes out to you Mrs. Mary and Family. Mr. Freeman was a Wonderful Man, was the same at all times. When around him, he made you feel like part of his family. He was such a joy to be around. Our prayers for you all. May God Bless you with the Strength to hold on to your Precious Wonderful Memories. He was one of the BEST.

October 11, 2013

RAYMOND WILLIAMS

HERMAN WAS A MAN OF PRINCIPLE WHO LOVED HIS FAMILY AND TOOK CARE OF BUSINESS.TO KNOW HIM ,MADE YOU A BETTER PERSON.

October 11, 2013

WAYNE GARRETT

THANKS TO MR HERMAN

October 11, 2013

Our hearts ache with you all.
We love you!

October 11, 2013

Mala McAlpin Harris

Such a precious man of God. Our family was Blessed by his loving kindness. Prayers for his entire family. Much love to you all.

October 11, 2013

Jo Gilmore Veenstra

Knowing the Freeman family during my years at LWUMC and in So Jackson was a wonderful joy. Herman was a fine Christian example. He and Mary reared two beautiful girls. Mary, I am back in Newton County! I love you all.

October 11, 2013

It's been years since I last saw Mr. Herman, but I will always remember what a fine man he was and how much he loved his family. I'm sending prayers and loving thoughts to them now.

October 10, 2013

Jimmy Rye

I'm so very sorry for his wife and family and, I've lost a great friend that I loved so dearly.

Showing 1 - 29 of 29 results

Make a Donation
in Herman Freeman's name

Memorial Events
for Herman Freeman

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Parkway Funeral Home and Memorial Park

1161 Highland Colony Pkwy, Ridgeland, MS 39157

How to support Herman's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Herman Freeman's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more