James Carroll Freeman

James Carroll Freeman, born November 3, 1935, in the wilderness of Lithia, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2025, in St. Augustine, Florida, after a courageous battle with bone cancer. He was 89.

Born into poverty, James was born in a home without indoor plumbing or electricity, where his family farmed, hunted for food, and built their own house. They traveled to town on horseback, and James did not experience air conditioning until college. Despite these humble beginnings, his relentless work ethic and love of learning propelled him to extraordinary heights. He earned a degree in aeronautical engineering from North Carolina State University and later a Master’s of Business Administration from the University of West Florida. His passion for flight culminated in orbiting the Earth in the U2, a testament to his remarkable journey from rural Florida to the skies.

A devoted husband, James was married to his beloved Sandra Reynolds Freeman for 64 years. Together, they raised three children: James Douglas Freeman (Jan), Deborah Freeman Scribner (Robert), and Mark Edward Freeman (Laura). He was a proud grandfather to James Trevor, Heather, Kate, Matthew, Nick, Zack, Abby, Meagan, Austin, Drew, Bryan, Emily, Maddie, Charlie, Forrest, and Wyatt, and great-grandfather to 11 great-grandchildren.

James served 23 years in the United States Air Force, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. His distinguished career with the USAF began in 1959. He was with Strategic Air Command at Blytheville, Arkansas, where he flew as a navigator on the B-52s during the Cold War from 1961–1966. He served in Vietnam from 1966 to 1967, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross for a heroic rescue mission. Upon returning, he was stationed at Eglin AFB in Test Operations until 1973, then transferred to Edwards AFB, where he earned the Master Missileman Badge leading to his pivotal work in the testing and development of the air-launched cruise missile, precursor to the smart bomb. He retired from the Air Force in 1981.

After his military service, James taught high school math and science until 2000, inspiring countless students with his passion for knowledge. Upon retiring to Fruit Cove, Florida, he remained deeply engaged in his community.

As man of faith, he served as a deacon, choir member, and youth leader at his church. As a Scoutmaster, he nurtured young minds and instilled values of leadership and resilience. An avid hunter and lover of the outdoors, James found solace in nature, often sharing his adventures with family and friends.

James leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, service, and love. His journey from a hardscrabble childhood to orbiting the Earth embodies the power of determination and education. His courage, wisdom, and warmth will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held on July 28, at Fruit Cove Baptist Church in “The Cove” adjacent to the church. Located at 210 Ridgecrest Ln, Fruit Cove, FL 32259. Visitation to begin at 9:00am and the Service to follow at 9:30am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Fruit Cove Baptist Church or the charity of your choice.