George J. Freeman

August 15, 1938 – October 7, 2025

Raleigh, North Carolina – George Jacob “Jake” Freeman of Raleigh, NC, passed away on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, surrounded by his family. Jake was born on August 15, 1938, in Fitzgerald, Georgia, to Mary Teresa (McMillan) and George Brantley Freeman. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Norman Freeman.

Jake earned associate degrees in Civil and Building Construction Technologies from Southern Technical Institute and graduated from the University of Kentucky in 1963 with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. Over a career that spanned more than 40 years, Jake worked in civil and environmental engineering, project management, and site development for industries including pulp and paper, energy generation, and criminal justice. He served as a project engineer and manager with CRS Sirrine and Jaako Poyry, and later as Director of Engineering for the North Carolina Department of Correction until his retirement in 2009. He also served on the board of the Construction and Maintenance Institute for Criminal Justice Agencies.

Jake married the love of his life, Molly Jean Hawkins, on January 15, 1983. Together they shared 42 wonderful years filled with laughter, adventures, and countless memories—especially from their travels throughout the Caribbean and across the U.S.

A proud Kentucky Wildcats fan, Jake never turned down a good game, a round of golf, a plate of Mexican food, or a margarita. In 1972, he was honored as a Kentucky Colonel by Governor Wendell H. Ford, something he was always proud of. He also had a deep appreciation for good Kentucky bourbon—but nothing brought him more joy than time spent with his family.

Jake will be deeply missed by his wife, Molly; daughters Suson Freeman vonLehmden (Bernie) of Raleigh, Marijake Freeman Caprell (Bart) of Wake Forest, and Paige Munsey Diaz (John) of Raleigh; granddaughters Annie Margaret vonLehmden Bayard (Andrew), Emily Elizabeth vonLehmden Redman (Isaac), Hunter Louise Caprell Giunco (Patrick), and Hanna Marie Caprell; and great-grandchildren Tate Edward Giunco, Levi Jacob Giunco, and Olivia James Bayard.

Jake lived a full, joyful life surrounded by people he loved—and who loved him right back.

After a private family service, we’ll gather to celebrate Jake’s life on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at The Hampton’s at Umstead Clubhouse in Raleigh (4924 Alder Pass) from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Flowers or donations in Jake’s memory to the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation would be deeply appreciated.