Ralph Freeman's Obituary
Ralph Freeman, 88, of Chattanooga, passed away Saturday, May 23, 2026, in the Hospice Care Center surrounded by his family who dearly loved him. Ralph was born on August 17, 1937, in Chattanooga, Tennessee to Robert and Mamie Freeman. He was educated in the Chattanooga Public School System and was a 1956 graduate of Howard High School.
Ralph was a member of Grace Baptist Tabernacle, and a devoted Elder of the church until his health failed him. He was always witnessing to others and leading them to know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.
Ralph worked at Newton Chevrolet, Walden Security, and Dixie Portland Flour Mill where he retired. He was awarded 3 awards from Walden Security and the Volunteer Service Award for serving on the Supervisory Committee with Southern Credit Union.
Ralph was one of 6 siblings and grew up in a closely connected family. He held many fond memories of his friends and family and never forgot those years of joy he shared with them and lifetime memories, laughter, and deep bonds were formed through strong family foundation. He also shared a love connection with his siblings that remained an important part of who he was throughout his life.
Among those who preceded Ralph in death include his wife, Dorothy Freeman; father, Robert Freeman; mother, Mamie Freeman; brothers, Roosevelt (Francis) Kilpatrick and John (Peggy) Kilpatrick; sisters, Helen (Joe William) Hubbard, Louise (Oliver) Smith, and Daisy (Waymon) Freeman; and mother-in-law, Naomi Shelby.
Although Ralph will be deeply missed, his legacy will live on through the family he loved as well as the many lives he touched. Cherishing his memories include his daughters, Charlotte Black of Chattanooga, TN and Cheryl (Shawn) Connors of Hampton, GA; sons, Kenneth Freeman, Kelvin (Nelle) Freeman, Ronald (Darlene) Freeman, all of Chattanooga, TN; devoted sister-in-law, Joyce Fisher of Orlando, FL; 14 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren; devoted caregiver, Sis. Jackie Woodson; a host of nieces; nephews; cousins; other relatives and friends.
Ralph will lie-in-state on Thursday, June 4, 2026, from 1-5 p.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will be Friday, June 5, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Hawkinsville Missionary Baptist Church with Minister Kelvin Freeman as the Eulogist. Burial in Forest Hills Cemetery.
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