Billy Michael Freeman, 80, of Rockingham, surrounded by his loving family, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023.
Billy was born Oct. 15, 1943 in Richmond County, a son of the late Emory D. “E.D.” and Ruth Harrelson Freeman.
He worked in the textile industry for many years, retiring from Springs Industries in Kershaw, South Carolina. He had a passion for Civil War relic hunting and acquired not only relics but great friends metal detecting. One such friend, Mark Madden, tells stories of their adventures trekking throughout the United States. He had a lifelong love of weightlifting and was the State Champion Arm Wrestler for two years in a row. He spent numerous weekends fishing on the coast in his younger years and enjoyed an Alaskan fishing trip with his childhood friend Jerry Gattis. His favorite pastime, however, was spending time with his family.
Billy loved the Lord and talking about the Lord. He attended Cordova Baptist Church for many years. He had a great respect and admiration for his parents. He spent 62 blissful years with the love of his life, Vivian. The two were blessed with a large loving family who will all miss him dearly.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Billy Michael Freeman Jr.; brother, Edward Freeman; and sisters, Linda Ray Culler and Mary Kay Faulk.
Surviving are his wife, Vivian Rainwater Freeman; children, Billy Freeman (Gwen), Vicky Craig (Richard) and Sharon Taylor (Chris); grandchildren, Justin Freeman, Maegan Freeman, Mallory Freeman, Shelby Freeman, Stoney Taylor, Daniel Craig and Bryson Taylor; great-granddaughter, Leilani Knollenburg; sister, Shirley Grooms; and his loyal canine companion of 15 years, Mojo.
Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024 at Cordova Baptist Church with Pastor Doug Anderson officiating. Interment will follow at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 12:45–1:45 p.m. Tuesday at the church and at other times at the home.
Memorials may be made to Cordova Baptist Church, P.O.Box 160, Cordova, NC 28330.
Condolences may be made online at carterfuneral.net.
