Willie J. Freeman Jr.

Willie J. Freeman Jr. “Billy or Freeman” was born on March 17, 1948 in Dayton, Ohio to parents Willie J. Freeman, Sr. and Edith Freeman.  He was a lifelong resident of Dayton, Ohio and a graduate of Dunbar High School, Class of 1966.

Billy accepted the Lord into his life at an early age and attended church with his parents regularly at Dixon United Methodist Church in Jefferson Township, Ohio.

He joined the United States Army Reserves in 1971.  He settled into his career as a factory assembly worker at Inland (GM) Plant in Dayton, Ohio and retired in the mid 1990’s.

Billy is well known for his charming demeanor (especially his smile), stylish way of dress, and his knack to tell “serious” stories.  He had a love for funk, R&B, and jazz music.  And an enjoyment for “Herbal Essence”.   If you heard, “Freeman Live” you knew the party was about to get started.  And, let’s not forget, his well-known trademark, “West-side matters”, would always be expressed whether it’s via conversation, text or Facebook.

Billy peacefully departed this life on Sunday, September 3, 2023 at Hospice of Dayton.  He is preceded in death by his parents Willie J. Sr. and Edith Freeman, one brother George Tye, one sister Ruth Pursiful, loving wife Kathleen Freeman, and best friend/brother Pete Ivory.

Survivors include children: James L. France, Rico Blackmon, Mark Baxter, Sr., Cassandra Freeman, Dwight (Kathy) Freeman,  Kurron Washington, LaDona (Charles), Hadiyah Washington, Dameon Bell, Diamond Shoulder,  Grandchildren: LaTia Phoenix, Felicia Mobley, Cameron Mobley, Tony Washington, Jenay Smith, Lyric Freeman, Kyron, Marhyonna, Marshe, Jamarion, Mark Jr., Zehavia and Zya Baxter, Rico Blackmon Jr., Yusef Weaver, Maurice Williams, J’Von, Jayona, Jamia France, Anthony, S’cents, Daijah Bell and twins Zavier & Zyon Brooks, ShyDiamond, Dylan.  Great grandchildren:  Cha Miah Phoenix, Justice, London & Kingston Smith.  Devoted best friend/brother Ronnie Berry, sisters Carol Clark and Karen Ivory, favorite sister-in-law Sharon Y. Cortner.  Former wives Patricia Thomas and Vicki Johnson; a host of other relatives and friends.

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