Patricia Colleen Freeman

Patricia Colleen Smith Freeman, 78, was born December 29, 1947, in Sikeston, Missouri, and died March 10, 2026, at 7:50 p.m. Patricia was a devoted, compassionate, hard-working woman whose life radiated steady love, purposeful service, and the kind of everyday kindness that quietly changes everything around it. A resident of Tavares, Florida, Patricia carried her roots with pride and her faith with grace.

Patricia moved to Florida in 1957 from Diehlstadt, Missouri, building a life defined by perseverance and care for others. A Baptist, Patricia was a member of Lake Saunders Baptist Church, where faith and community were enduring anchors. With characteristic determination, Patricia pursued nursing—attending LPN school in the early 80’s and received a Bachelor's degree in Nursing in the late 80’s—then brought skill, calm, and compassion to work at Florida Hospital Waterman. She worked in hospice care and eventually became the Director of Nursing at Waterman's Home Care Division.

Patricia was deeply proud of being bestowed the honor of being named a Kentucky Colonel on December 3, 1997. The title of Kentucky Colonel is the highest honorary distinction granted by the Governor of Kentucky and is awarded to individuals in recognition of noteworthy service, personal accomplishments, and contributions to their communities. Nominees must be over the age of 18, have a record of meaningful service, and be recommended by an existing Colonel. Receiving this distinction was a moment Patricia treasured, reflecting her commitment to service and the positive impact she made on those around her.

Patricia’s heart for people reached far beyond home. She participated in mission trips to South America, including the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, and Peru, offering time and effort in service that reflected a deeply held belief in helping wherever help was needed. She selflessly volunteered her time as a mediator for civil cases in the small claims court of Lake County, Florida. Patricia valued her ability to freely give of her time, energy, and resources to anyone that required her assistance.

Family was at the center of her world. Patricia was predeceased by her late first husband Vaughn Smith; brother Donald Bush; father Joseph Bush; mother Joyce Bush; and her beloved aunt Margaret Wurmnest.

Patricia is survived by her loving husband and steady companion Frank Freeman of Tavares, Florida; son Vaughn "Gig" Smith (Julie) of Eustis, Florida; daughter Colleen Smith-Lanier (Kenny) of Tavares, Florida; son Stan Freeman (Marsha) of Louisville, Texas; daughters Debbie Freeman and Darby Freeman, of Dallas, Texas and Houston, Texas; brother Ronald “Ron” Bush of Altamonte Springs, Florida; sister-in-law “Berta” Busby of Ringmer, England; and 12 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren; and many treasured extended family members and friends.

Patricia’s home life was rich with simple joys and gentle rituals. Gardening and flowers were a daily delight, and Patricia’s nurturing spirit extended naturally to animals—an avid animal lover whom bottle fed many of them over the years. Patricia’s two manx cats, Dali and Dora, were part of the family’s warmth and rhythm. And in the backyard stood a signature treasure: a mango tree that supplied what many would insist were the best mangos you’ll ever have—shared with pride, enjoyed with laughter, and remembered as one more sweet way Patricia made life better for others.

Patricia’s life was a celebration of steadfast love—lived with open hands, a generous heart, and a spirit that lifted people up. Patricia will be deeply missed and gratefully remembered.