William Harold Freeman, 97 of Connersville passed away late Tuesday evening, January 18, 2022 at Miller’s Merry Manor in Rushville, Indiana.
One of five children of Worth and Lucille Sutherland Freeman, Harold was born in Monroe County, Indiana on March 24, 1924 and graduated from Spencer High School. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degree in Education from Indiana University.
A decorated World War II veteran, Harold served in Patton’s 3rd Army, 35th Division and fought in the Battle of the Bulge.
Harold began teaching elementary school in Ellettsville, Indiana for one year, then in Cambridge City, Indiana for two years, followed by over 33 years for Fayette County School System at Grandview and Eastview Elementary Schools. Harold retired after 36 years of teaching.
On June 27, 1943, Harold married the former Mary Malicoat and they made Connersville their home in 1954. Mrs. Freeman passed away on September 30, 2004.
Harold was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Connersville. He had a lifelong commitment to the youth of the community, serving over 20 years with the Optimist Club and as a leader with the Boy Scouts of America.
In his leisure time, he enjoyed woodworking, riding his bicycle, traveling, and reading.
Survivors include three children, Gary (Joy) Freeman of Toccoa, Georgia, Karen (Dan) Elliott of Connersville, and Patricia (Jerald) Dawson of Kinston, North Carolina; fourteen grandchildren; thirty-four great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Virginia Combs of Ellettsville, Indiana; a brother, Charles Freeman of Indianapolis; a daughter-in-law, Debra Freeman of Connersville; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Besides his wife of 61 years, Mary Freeman, Harold was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Stephen Eric Freeman on November 26, 2021; and a granddaughter, Kellie Becraft on October 29, 2020.
Family and friends may call from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, January 24, 2022 at First Baptist Church of Connersville. Pastor Mal Gibson will officiate. Burial with military honors provided by Fayette County Veterans Council will follow in Dale Cemetery.
Online condolences may be made anytime at millermosterrobbins.com.