June Freedman

June was born December 24, 1938 and grew up in Walpole MA. She was the daughter of the late George and Julia Mather and sister of the late “Buddy” Mather. She is survived by her husband Robert (Bob) Freedman of Hingham MA, daughter Rana Freedman (partner Kelly Beardsley) of Oakland CA, son and daughter-in-law, Jeremy and Erin Freedman and granddaughters Ella and Charlotte Freedman of Reston VA and numerous nieces, nephews, friends and colleagues who adored her.

A constant learner and voracious reader, June earned 4 degrees spanning a period of over 40 years. She received an A.A. from Fisher Junior College, B.A. and M.A. from Harvard University and an M.S.W. From Boston University School of Social Work. She achieved the designation of LISW and had been a hospital and hospice social worker.

She and Bob met at a folk dance in Cambridge, MA in 1969. They were married over 49 years and were not just lifetime spouses, but best friends.

June was an excellent gardener and birder. She loved nature and was passionate to protect wildlife and open space for future generations. She was a caring and loving person, having actively volunteered in numerous organizations and social action programs her entire life.

Most recently, June volunteered at the Massachusetts Audubon Society sanctuary in Marshfield. She served on the Town of Hingham Council on Aging and was active in planning educational programs for the Hingham Senior Center. She served on the Board of Directors for Congregation Sha’aray Shalom in Hingham and had chaired its Social Action Committee.

She was a lifelong and adventurous world traveler, especially reveling in seeing animals wild and free (her favorites were elephants). She participated in four safaris to different parts of eastern and southern Africa and observed wild tigers in the national parks of India. She loved the U.S. National Park system.

Due to health concerns during the pandemic, funeral services will be open-air at graveside in Sharon Memorial Park (Sharon, MA) on Monday, September 20, 2021 at 10:45am. There will be no shiva. The family requests those who attend wear masks and have received their full COVID vaccinations.

Contributions in her memory may be made to Congregation Sha’aray Shalom, 1112 Main Street, Hingham MA 02043.