Joseph Douglas Freeman

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph Douglas Freeman (45), who left this world on August 30, 2025, at the age of 45. Born on August 3, 1980, Joseph was a cherished son, a devoted husband, a loving stepfather, and a loyal friend. He lived a life filled with kindness, generosity, and an unwavering spirit that touched the hearts of all who knew him.

Joseph was a proud native of Charlotte, North Carolina, where he spent his formative years. He attended Myers Park High School and furthered his education at Central Piedmont Community College. Joseph had a deep passion for learning and was dedicated to his work, finding great joy in his role at Amazon, where he formed lasting friendships with his co-workers.

He was preceded in death by his beloved father, Douglas Doyle Freeman, and his maternal grandfather, Edgar Franklin Bumgardner. He was also mourned by the loss of his paternal grandparents, Reverend Doyle Freeman and Hazel Freeman. Despite these losses, Joseph’s spirit remained resilient, and he was a beacon of support and love for those around him.

Joseph is survived by his devoted wife, Holly Freeman, who was the love of his life. He embraced the role of stepfather with open arms, cherishing his stepchildren—Megan, Hailey, Emma, C.J., Addie, Kinsley, and Mason—and reveling in the joy of being a step-grandfather to Nova and Harrison. He was also deeply loved by his mother, Julie Tollison, and her husband, Barry Tollison. His grandmother, Kathleen Bumgardner, and his best friend and brother, Drew Hamm, along with Drew’s family, also carry his memory close to their hearts.

Joseph found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved fishing and camping, where he could bask in nature’s beauty. His culinary skills brought comfort and joy to family gatherings, and beach trips were a cherished tradition that allowed him to unwind and create lasting memories. A die-hard NASCAR fan, he enjoyed the thrill of the races, often sharing these experiences with family and friends. Music was another of Joseph's passions; it filled his life with rhythm and joy, providing a soundtrack to his adventures.

Joseph was known for his kind-heartedness, loyalty, and generosity. He had a unique ability to make everyone feel special and valued, and he gave of himself without hesitation. His laughter was infectious, and his spirit was uplifting, leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to know him.

A funeral service to celebrate Joseph’s life will be held on September 21, 2025, at 2pm at McEwen Funeral Service - Pineville Chapel located at 10500 Park Road in Charlotte. Friends and family are invited to gather to honor his memory and share stories that encapsulate the warmth he brought into their lives.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Joseph’s honor to St. Jude Children's Hospital or the Humane Society of Charlotte, causes that reflect his compassion for children and animals alike.

As we bid farewell to Joseph Douglas Freeman, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. His legacy will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of his family and friends, and he will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.