Ernest was born in Memphis, Tennessee on June 13, 1941 to the late Ernest & Eva Freeland, Sr. He graduated from Whitehaven High School in 1960. He worked his way through college at Memphis State University. He worked for Exxon, Mead Johnson, owner of American Screen & Door, and finally Stewart Jackson Pharmaceuticals. Also in this time he was in the Army Reserves.
He enjoyed being outdoors, the family had a large farm in Thayer, Missouri. His main hobby beside work was his Championship BBQ team, Holy Smokers Too. They won the Memphis in May World Championship BBQ contest, whole hog division, in 1985 and 1988. Mr. & Mrs. Freeland were also Certified BBQ Judges for the Memphis in May BBQ circuit.
Along with his parents Ernest was preceded in death by his sister Janie Poole.
Mr. Freeland's memory is lived on through his wife of 38 years Mary Ann Williams Freeland; children Dr. Mark (Jennifer) Freeland of Nashville, Tennessee, Kelly (Troy) Roller of Collierville, Tennessee and Stephanie Holder of Bartlett, Tennessee; sister Pat Dabbs of San Antonio, Texas; grandchildren Andrew and Ned Freeland, Branden, Emma and Elise Roller and Kai, Kallie and Kayson Lockhart.
Family and friends will gather on Wednesday, July 16 from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm and funeral services will be on Thursday, July 17 beginning at 10:00 am all at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 3700 N. Germantown Parkway, Bartlett, Tennessee 38133.
The family suggests any donations be sent to the Parkinson's Foundation at https://www.parkinson.org/how-to-help?. Online condolences and directions may be found through www.memphisfuneralhome.net.
