She was born in Selma, Alabama on June 1, 1952 the oldest of eight children to the late Catherine G. Freeman and Paul L. Freeman, Sr. Gail was married to the late Franklin D. Bates for 45 years. She was Christian by faith and served as a Pastor’s wife of Spirit of God Fellowship Church by her husband’s side for many years. Gail retired from Henderson Insurance Agency where she had worked since graduating high school. She loved her family dearly and her loving spirit will be greatly missed.
Gail was preceded in death by her parents Catherine G. Freeman and Paul L. Freeman, Sr. and her two brothers John Philip Freeman and Michael Steven Freeman, Sr. She is survived by five siblings: Wayne Freeman Sr. (Debbie) of Maplesville, AL, Myra Freeman Frazier (Joe) of Phenix City, AL, Gary Freeman (Ida) of Columbus, GA, Laura Freeman Knipe (Jerry Rumph) of Cataula, GA, Paul Freeman, Jr. of Nashville, TN; stepchildren: Jeffery Bates (Shana) of San Antonio, TX and Deana C. Cerbo (Hugo); several step grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Family will visit with friends on Thursday January 27, 2022 at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary Columbus, Georgia from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM. A graveside service will follow visitation with a procession into Parkhill Cemetery to celebrate Gail’s life at 11:00 AM with Pastor Ken Dawson officiating.
To share memories and condolences with Gail’s family please visit www.shcolumbus.com.
