James F. Freeman, 64, a resident of Franklinton, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, May 24, 2019, surrounded by his family after a short, courageous battle with cancer.

A pillar of the community, he retired recently from the Town of Franklinton after 41 years of service. He dedicated most of his spare time to Franklinton Dixie Baseball, not only by taking great care of the fields and grounds, but also by cheering on the children. Devoted to his family, he spent every minute possible with his beloved wife, children and grandchildren. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and watching his grandsons play the sports they loved.

He is survived by: his wife of 45 years, Debra Christine Hodges Freeman; two daughters, Carmen Freeman of Bogalusa, and Frances Freeman of Mt. Hermon; son, James Freeman Jr. and his family, wife Lisa and sons Mason and Dalton; siblings, William, Terry, Carolyn, Michelle, Lynn, Annette and their families; and special friends, Gary Dufrene and Ike New.

He was preceded in death by his parents, T.J. Freeman and Louise Brooks Freeman; brothers, T.J. and Kevin “Spike;” and sisters, Cathy, Julianne and Pearl.

Visitation was at Crain Funeral Home on Monday, May 27, from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m., and after 9 a.m. on Tuesday, May 28. A funeral service was held in the funeral home chapel at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, May 28, with the Rev. John Mark Franklin and the Rev. Ted Shields officiating. Burial followed in the Springhill-Magee Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorial donations to Franklinton Dixie Youth Baseball Association, P.O. Box 393, Franklinton, LA 70438.

Pallbearers were Timmy Freeman, Christopher Freeman, Jeffery Freeman, Patrick Freeman, Johnny Guyllette and Jody Guyllette. Honorary pallbearers were Andrew Miester, Chadrick Guyllette, Channing Guyllette and his many former coworkers and friends with the Town of Franklinton.

Obituaries can be viewed online at www.crainfh.com.