Gilbert Freeman

Gilbert Freeman was born Feb.. 23, 1925 in Eunice, La., to Pete and Gussie Freeman. He entered into rest Nov. 25 in Wasilla.

At a young age he finished his schooling and went to work in Beaumont, Texas to help his family. During World War II he entered the Army and served in Germany, England and France. Mr. Freeman had worked in the transportation, agricultural, construction and demolition industry. His faith played an important role in his life and he attended most recently Shiloh Baptist Church of Palmer, Greater Friendship Baptist Church of Anchorage. In Oakland, Calif., he was a member of St. Matthews Baptist Church and Beth Eden Baptist Church.

When his health began to fail he made the decision to move to Alaska to be with his family and they were honored to have him with them. Mr. Freeman was a good-spirited person and was lovingly called “The Grandfather” by his family. He took charge at noisy family gatherings by stating “At Ease!” He shared his wisdom and good spirit with all and will be missed by his loved ones.

Mr. Freeman is survived by his former wife Ruby Freeman-Titus, daughter Etta Bradley and partner Edward Stores; grandchildren, Eldridge and Elgin of Anchorage; and Eldrae Bradley and fiancé Stephen McGee; Elicia and Terrell Small, of Wasilla. Great-grandchildren King Small, Elreecia Bradley, Eldridge Bradley II, Eltashawn Bradley, Elashea Bradley, Elshawniqua Bradley, Elshandrea Bradley, Eldridge Deboise Bradley, Elteyvionne Bradley, Elxavier Bradley, Elanisha Bradley all of Anchorage, and Queandra Manley of Tennessee. Nephew Donell and Vernita Polk of Wasilla, and special friend Adeline Washington of Berkeley, Calif. He was preceded in death by his parents, Pete and Gussie Freeman, brothers Westley, Willie and Charles Freeman.

Mr. Freeman’s family wishes to thank the Mat-Su Regional Homecare and Hospice of Wasilla for the special care they provided.

Funeral services were held Dec. 2 at the Valley Funeral Home Chapel, Wasilla. Internment will be held at Ft. Richardson at a later date.

Funeral arrangements were made through Valley Funeral Home.