Billy Ray Freeman

At an early age, he accepted Christ and professed his love for the Lord. Ray was dedicated to his church and served as a Deacon and in numerous leadership roles for many years. His devotion to Christ was an example for many to follow.

Ray was a 1982 graduate of JC Harmon High School in KCK. He was highly athletic and played many sports to include baseball, track, and wrestling. During his senior year he placed 2nd overall at the state wrestling tournament. He was also a part of the JC Harmon Marching Band. Upon graduation he was being solicited to play professional baseball for the major leagues but chose to serve his country and joined the United States Air Force. He excelled in his Air Force career with receipt of many honors and accolades. He concluded his military career at the rank of Master Sergeant in 2008. Upon his retirement, Ray continued serving with the federal government as a civilian in the fields of logistics plans and transportation management.

He was an avid baseball and football fan and enjoyed watching all sports including his favorite teams the Kansas City Royals, Kansas City Chiefs, and Kansas Jayhawks. He also enjoyed traveling, classic cars, and spending time with family and friends.

Ray left to be with the Lord on Saturday, January 14, 2017 in Kaiserslautern, Germany. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. and his Homegoing Service will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 28, 2017 at St. Andrew Baptist Church, 2200 N. 53rd Street in Kansas City, Kansas. Graveside services will follow in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.

He was preceded in death by his father, Lloyd Freeman Jr. and brother, Lloyd Freeman III.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Cheryl L. (Smith) Freeman of the home; his mother Rosie L. Lowe of Kansas City, Kansas; two brothers, Kenneth Lowe and Daniel L. Freeman I (Tausha) both of Kansas City, Kansas; one sister, Denise Freeman of Kansas City, Kansas; his in-laws Curtis and Gloria Smith of Hampton, Virginia; his brother in-law Gerald Smith of Ocean Springs, Mississippi; two sister in laws Pamela Dean Freeman and Joyce Lowe; two step-sons of Denver, Colorado and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles & friends.

Fond memories and condolences may be left at www.chapelhill-butler.com, as services are under the direction of the Chapel Hill-Butler Funeral Home, 701 North 94th Street in Kansas City, Kansas (913)334-3366. The family suggests contributions to the Disabled American Veterans and the American Cancer Society in honor of Master Sergeant (retired) Billy Ray Freeman, in lieu of flowers.