Hugh L. Freeman

It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Hugh Lee Freeman, Jr. on January 17, 2026. Born on April 10, 1950, at Georgia Baptist Hospital in Atlanta to Hugh Lee and Sarah Frances Freeman, Hugh lived a life defined by connection, humor, and an unexpected tenderness.

Hugh grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, graduating from Lakeside High School. He spent a significant part of his career working for National Teachers Associates, providing insurance policies to educators and school staff. Hugh viewed this work as more than just sales; he loved the community in the inner-city schools of Atlanta. He formed lasting bonds with teachers, coaches, and students, often staying to share lunch and jokes. His kindness went beyond the job description, once even driving a young student to his mother’s workplace when she was unable to pick him up.

Hugh was a man who never met a stranger. He befriended everyone he crossed paths with, from staff at his dry cleaner and grocery stores to the doctors and other healthcare providers that cared for him over the past 6 years. He was quick-witted and loved to make people laugh. A passionate conversationalist, Hugh loved talking about sports, music, and politics—sharing his views freely, whether you wanted to hear them or not. Despite a sometimes tough exterior, those who knew him best saw his soft side, revealed through unexpected moments of love and unique displays of affection.

He was a devoted husband who is survived by his loving and caring wife of 38 years, Marilyn Martin Freeman. His legacy lives on through his daughter, Jessica Goss (Josh), and his beloved granddaughters, Caroline and Kate Goss. He was the oldest of three and shared a special bond with his surviving brothers, Thomas Wright Freeman (Elizabeth) and William Emmett Freeman (Sheila). He is also fondly remembered by his many nephews, nieces, and great-nephews and nieces, all of whom played an important part in his life.

Hugh was full of life—a life that will be terribly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, including his beloved dog Cooper.

A Private Memorial is being planned for his immediate family and a few life long friends.

In Lieu of flowers or plants, Hugh's family sincerely requests donations be made to one of the following organizations in his memory:

1. The Samsky Heart Failure Clinic in honor of Dr DeMoss: http://give.piedmont.org/hughfreeman

2. Hospice Atlanta: https://vnhs.org/

3. Your Local Animal Shelter or the ASPCA: aspca.org