William Douglas Freeman

William “Bill” Douglas Freeman was born May 23, 1943, in Rusk, Texas. He passed away peacefully on July 25, 2025, at the age of 82. He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis Douglas and Mary Louise Freeman.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, JoAnn Freeman; his children: Tony Freeman, Christene Wood and fiancé Chris Elledge, Shelley Preston and husband Kenneth; and his grandchildren: Leslie Williams and husband AJ, Lindsay Chandler and husband Jonathan, Chris Freeman, McKenna Benitez and husband Kevin, Nick Freeman, Faith Freeman, and Kenley Preston. He also leaves behind one great-grandchild, Kammi Chandler.

Bill was raised in Latexo, Texas, before moving to Houston. He graduated from Smiley High School in 1961, where many considered him one of the most handsome young men in his class.

He worked for both Houston Belt and Terminal Railroad, and Union Pacific Railroad before joining the family business, Freeman’s Auto Service, when his father became ill. Known and loved throughout the Oak Forest area, Bill never met a stranger and was always ready to strike up a conversation wherever he went.

In 1978, Bill married JoAnn, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and happiness.

He deeply valued his family, often reminiscing about past reunions and sharing memories of growing up in a Christian home. Bill had a lifelong love for music and could often be found in his garage, playing his guitar at full volume behind the 18-inch soundproof walls he proudly installed himself.

Though most men might have chosen a dog for companionship, Bill was a true cat lover. He always said, “Anyone who doesn’t like cats never had a kitten.”

Easygoing by nature, Bill found joy in simple things. He never needed much to be happy, had a sharp wit, and a one-of-a-kind sense of humor that brought smiles to everyone around him.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.