Sergeant First Class David Freeman, Jr.

Greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world- 1 John 4:4………. was Deacon, Sergeant First Class, David Freeman, Jr., favorite scripture. And he understood the assignment of knowing who was the Greatest in his life, Jesus Christ his Lord and Savior.  David’s life work represented the Incredible person he was to the world through his genuine, gentle and kind interaction with others. As an extremely meek man who used restraint in difficult times, he also made his presence known with a quiet strength that spoke volumes and honored the Greater one in him.

David Freeman, Jr., was born on September 22, 1948, to David Sr. and Louise (Chambliss) Freeman in Jarratt, Virginia. He was second of three boys and was lovingly known as “Babyson “. David attended and graduated from local schools in Jarratt. He soon found his way to the big city, Richmond, VA. and while there, he became acquainted with life-long friends including his wife, Joyce. However, their love story happened much later.  He enrolled in the U.S. Army immediately after high school and served for over 35 years, retiring in early 2000. Inclusive of his military tenure, he served honorably in the Vietnam War and worked at the Defense Distribution Depot in Richmond, VA.

While living and working in Richmond, David ran into a mutual friend of he and Joyce (Diane Jones), who reconnected them in 1999, and the love story began. David and Joyce had not seen each other in over 25 years or more. It was a beautiful second time around love story.  He finally married his long-time love on July 16, 2003.  David instantly gained family and friends out of this love connection. Deacon David and Pastor Joyce served the Lord together and obeyed the call of initiating a ministry, In the Name of Jesus Outreach Ministry, under the mentorship of Rev. James Thompson where many have been assisted through their community service through the love of Jesus Christ. The ultimate service, higher than his military service, was the way David served Joyce. He treated her as a Queen. And Joyce faithfully served, nurtured, loved and honored her “Husband” (as she affectionately would call him) as a King. He was famously known for his chivalrous qualities especially opening car doors for his wife and any lady present. David, lived with Dementia, and it progressed in the last 3-4 years of his life. However, Joyce served him until his last breath as the lovingly devoted wife.

David was very hospitable and loved everyone. And EVERYONE LOVED Pop, Papa Dave, Uncle Dave, Bro. Dave, Deacon Dave, or Mr. David.  He had an infectious laugh and loved joking with others. But didn’t mind you making jokes on him. He absolutely loved SWEETS... just give him a COOKIE… and he was your friend for life. He was also gifted with his hand a talented mechanic and handyman.  He loved good movies. His favorites were “The Incredibles” and “Rango”, imagine that! His laughter was boisterous while watching those movies and likewise for those watching him laugh at those movies. He was a LOYAL Dallas Cowboys Fan!!! Many moments of friendly trash-talking happened with his son-in-law, grandson and brothers regarding football. David was an overall INCREDIBLE husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend!

David leaves a legacy of love through his loving, devoted wife of 18 years, Joyce Z. Freeman; four children, Chanda Jones (Waylon), Sherod Johnson, Jamal Freeman and his baby girl Shenarri Freeman; one grandson, Paizley Jones; two granddaughters, Briahna Jones, and Joy Jones; two brothers preceded in death, James “Tom” Freeman, Sr. (Ana) and Will Freeman (Margaret); two aunts, Loureatha Freeman Bolling (Lawrence), and Susie Freeman; a DEVOTED Niece, Doyvon “Dee” Montgomery;  two loving sisters-in-law, Yvonne Minor, and Annie B. Fields; five brothers-in-law, Roy L. Bryant, Jr. II (Jackie) (both pre-deceased), Ronald Bryant, Sr. (Minerva), Alvin Adams, Eddie Hargrove (Candy), and Joseph Bryant; loving nephews, Doric Montgomery, Sr., and Clarey “CJ” Walker; Uncle Dave’s Little Buddies, Madison, Johaana, Gerard, Doric Jr., Alexandria, and Darian; close friends, Bernard Fogg, and Bill Montgomery (Margie); a loving host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends that are like family!!!

Sarah L. Carter’s Funeral Home Northside is serving the Family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Sergeant First Class David Freeman, Jr., please visit our floral store.