Charles Boyce Freeman

Charles Boyce Freeman (Chuck), 89, of Chesterfield, Virginia, went home to be with the Lord on January 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 10, 1935, in Rutherfordton, North Carolina, Chuck lived a life filled with love, faith, and devotion to his Lord.

He was welcomed into heaven by his parents, Charles Bates Freeman and Geneva Edwards Freeman; and his brother, Alan Freeman.

He leaves behind his wife of 64 years, Mildred Harris Freeman, the love of his life and partner in every adventure. Together, they built a beautiful life and a legacy of love. He is also survived by his son, Keith Boyce Freeman (Ginney), of Chesapeake, VA; his daughter, Kimberly Freeman Dye (Daniel), of Mooresville, NC; his brother, Wray Freeman (Jane), of Lexington, SC; and five treasured grandchildren, Marissa and Dylan Freeman, Kelsey, Kourtney, and Kylie Dye, who were his pride and joy. He also leaves behind extended family and countless friends whose lives he touched deeply.

After graduating from Mount Vernon High School in North Carolina, Chuck graduated with an associates degree from Gardner- Webb College and obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Chemistry from Western Carolina University. He proudly served his country as a helicopter pilot in the United States Marine Corps, achieving the rank of Captain. He often shared stories of his time in the military, especially his experiences in Japan, which he recalled with pride and humor.

Following his military service, Chuck worked as a chemical engineer at Allied Signal (later Honeywell), where his sharp mind and dedication was clearly visible. His brilliance extended far beyond his career. Known for his vast knowledge and keen intellect, Chuck amazed family and friends by answering almost every question on Jeopardy with ease, his family often joking that he should be a contestant.

But more than his intellect, Chuck was a man of unwavering integrity. He believed deeply in doing what was right, no matter the cost, and was an example to all who knew him of how to live with honesty and honor.

Chuck had an ear for music and a heart for worship. He often played the piano by ear, filling the home with familiar tunes, and sang hymns with his warm baritone voice during Sunday services. His family will always remember how his music brought comfort and joy to their lives.

Chuck had a passion for woodworking, a craft that brought him both joy and a sense of fulfillment. With skilled hands and a keen eye for detail, he poured his heart into creating beautiful pieces of furniture. He found immense happiness in knowing that his work would be a part of his loved ones' lives for years to come, serving as a reminder of his thoughtfulness and the love he poured into every project.

He was a storyteller at heart, whether reminiscing about growing up in Rutherford County, recounting adventures with his brothers, or sharing the story of how he met Mildred-an unforgettable moment he always described as "love at first sight." Chuck had a way of making people laugh and feel at ease, with a smile that could brighten anyone's day and jokes that left everyone chuckling.

A man of steadfast faith, Chuck served as a member of Chester Baptist Church for 60 years. He was a deacon, a devoted and beloved Sunday school teacher, and an active leader on many committees.

Chuck was, above all, a family man. He loved nothing more than spending time with his children and grandchildren, celebrating their achievements, and cheering them on in all they did. His family was his greatest treasure, and he made sure they always knew it.

The family will be receiving friends at Chester Baptist Church in The Great Hall on Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 1:00 to 3:00 pm.

A service will take place at 12:00 pm, on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at Mount Vernon Baptist Church, 676 Hudlow Road, Forest City, NC 28043. Inurnment with military honors will follow in the church cemetery. Following the committal service, a light lunch will be provided in the church fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Chester Baptist Church, 4317 School Street, Chester, VA 23831, or Mount Vernon Baptist Church, 2676 Hudlow Road, Forest City, NC 28043, in memory of Charles Boyce Freeman's life of service and love.