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HENRY R FREEMAN
Sunrise: September 16, 1949 Sunset: March 4, 2024
Henry R. Freeman passed away on March 4, 2024.
Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, from 11:00 am until 12:00 noon at First Apostolic Faith Church, 790 Easter Ave. Akron, Ohio 44307. Funeral service will immediately follow. Condolences may be sent to 535 Ravine View Dr. Akron, Oh 44303.
A note from his brother George Freeman...
With Great Sadness I announced the passing of my brother Henry R. Freeman. The Lord call him home at 11:00 pm Monday Night. He went in his sleep.
Henry Roosevelt Freeman was born to Roosevelt and Eula Mae (Powell) Freeman on September 16, 1949, in Cleveland, Ohio. Henry was raised in an environment where hard work, devout faith, and an enduring sense of respect were not just taught but lived values. Henry was baptized at Central Christian Church in Cleveland Ohio at an early age. A standout athlete at Shaker Heights High School, Henry excelled in not one, but two sports. His academic and athletic achievements led him to Bluffton College (now known as Bluffton University). Henry’s thirst for knowledge and justice propelled him to the University of Akron, School of Law, where he achieved his Juris Doctorate and passed the Ohio bar in 1981, setting the stage for a life dedicated to service, advocacy, and community upliftment.
Henry’s big heart was not just a metaphor but a reality; for over 30 years he offered sound legal advice to all who sought his counsel, expecting nothing in return but the satisfaction of aiding another. He also served as treasurer of the Black Professionals Association in Cleveland, Ohio for over 20 years.
He was an avid sports enthusiast and playing card aficionado—whether it was spades, bid whisk or pinochle he taught the children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren the art of playing the game (and taught a little trash talking too). Henry loved music, dancing, and sang baritone in various choirs throughout his life.
On March 4, 2024, at 11:02 p.m., Henry Roosevelt Freeman made his peaceful transition after a valiant battle with a prolonged illness. Henry’s life is celebrated and remembered by his loving wife Georgetta (Tompkins) Freeman, honored brother George Freeman, along with his cherished children Olivia, Wayne, Adrienne, Ahmad, his adored grandchildren Ashley (Jamar Sr.), Derrick, Qari, Avery, Sloan, George (Geo), his treasured great-grandchildren Zariah, Jayda, Journee, Lola, Jamar Jr., great-great-grandchild Isaiah, and a host of other friends and family too many to name.
Henry’s journey through this world was marked by love, service, and an indomitable spirit that inspired all who knew him. Henry’s easy laugh and warm smile will be deeply missed, but the light he brought to this world will continue to shine in the memories of those he loved and the lives he touched.
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James Wong (Chin)
I also remember Henry whom I first met at Woodbury. A friendly guy with a big smile. Condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.
Harold Madorsky
RIP Henry. Sympathies to George and Henry's family and friends.
Roger Frankel
I met Henry in homeroom at Woodbury and was fortunate to start each morning at school for the next six years with him close by. Henry was an outstanding leader and athlete on the football field and committed to the team. We looked forward to seeing each other at reunions. Rest in peace my friend. My condolences to your loved ones.
Carey Fischer
Having arrived at Shaker in 10th grade, I didn't know too many of my fellow classmates. It seemed that many of you knew each other forever. So, being in a home room with those whose last name began with the letter 'F'', gave me the pleasure of knowing Henry. We had a mutual interest in sports, in humor, in just causes and in reaching out to others. Shortly after graduation, my family moved far away, so I only saw Henry at reunions.
Kind, friendly, a consenus builder, athlete (although we kidded each other about putting on a' 'few' pounds) and smart, he remained in my thoughts about the very talented and welcoming people who made my short stay a Shaker such a positive experience. To his family and friends, my condolences. Please know that Henry did so much to bridge a gap that we all need to strive to accomplish.
I smile when I think of him and truly lament his passing.
And to my fellow homeroom classmates, stay well. No future in getting old.
Carey
Ronald Harris
Henry, rest in peace. My condolences to his family. I spent many years at Woodbury and at Shaker High, on the football field with both Henry and George, leaving me with memories for a lifetime. Henry was a true leader on and off the field and a great human being. I really appreciate the time we spent together 🙏
Gary Collins
Henry was a "good kid" in school, truly a good man, more mature than me. I remember him fondly and I'm sad to hear of his loss. He was quick to smile, considerate and empathetic. Condolences to friends and family as he joins so many of our Shaker brethren.
William Dudley
I knew Henry as a teammate at Woodbury before leaving for another high school, and ran into him several years later while we were both working out at Shaker HS field. He was always a great teammate...generous, kind, fun, uplifting and mature beyond his years...a wonderful man. He will be sorely missed by many. Deep condolences to his family.
Roderick Adams
As another classmate who came to Shaker in the 10th grade, I only met Henry then. We were teamates for 2 years on the football team, but Henry was a multisport athelete. While football was his best sport(all conference and college scholarship) he played varsity basketball and varsity baseball. The hardest hit I had in school was from Henry in practice. As many have said, he was a good person and a good friend. We continued our friendship after college when we both served on the Board of Directors for a non-profit foundation here in Cleveland. Henry served as the legal council for many years. He will be missed. may he rest in peace.
Louise (Jan) Campbell (Campbell)
Back in my youth, the aches of aging and other dismaying physical changes were not on my radar. Mortality was a topic I consigned mostly to the pulpit on Sunday mornings. Yet, here we are again, mourning another friend's passing. However, I do love reading the comments shared here, especially the anecdotes, tributes, and personal insights, and like to envision Henry smiling as he reads along.
Robert Yeager
Henry was a really good person whom I remember with fondness. One memory that stands out was during a Red and White Review. As fellow baritones in the choir, we somehow found ourselves, along with some others, side by side in a chorus line on stage. Did I mention that we were in pink tutus? I remember Henry looking particularly fine!