Rhudean C. Freeman

She was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 61 years, Carlton Ray Freeman; her father Garland Cochran, Sr; her mother Rennie Mae Bunch Cochran; her brothers Elvin Cochran; Garland “G.C.” Cochran, Jr., and O’Neal Cochran; her sister Mildred Waites; her son David Ray Freeman; daughter-in-law Ginger Adams Freeman; grandson Christian Freeman; and her cherished grand dog, Angel Freeman.

Rhudean is survived by her sister Ruby Lama; her children Antonette Freeman Chopin and Shannon L. Freeman; son-in-law Robert J. Chopin; and daughter-in-law Donette J. Freeman. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Jesse Freeman, Ashley Chopin LaBarre (Barry LaBarre), Brittany F. Chelette (Craig J. Chelette), Chantelle Freeman, Brendan A. Freeman, (Kendra Freeman), Kyle J. Chopin, Grant J. Chopin, and Emily C. Kimball.

Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Charlie Chelette, Chloe Chelette, Katelynn LaBarre, Sadie LaBarre, Emma Freeman, Eli Freeman, and Ryder Freeman — who affectionately called her Honey Maw-Maw. She was also loved and admired by her many nieces and nephews, many of which continued to visit with her until the very end.

Rhudean was the steady rock and heartbeat of her family — a wellspring of wisdom, grace, and unwavering love. She gave herself fully to those she loved, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and remained a constant source of guidance and comfort throughout their lives.

Her strength came from a deep and abiding faith in God. That faith sustained her through many sorrows and trials, and it now stands as a powerful testimony: God is faithful, even through the hardest of storms.

Though our hearts are heavy with loss, her spirit lives on in everyone she touched — through her kindness, her counsel, and the unconditional love she poured into her family.

Among her many joys, Rhudean had a gift for hospitality. No one entered her home without being lovingly “encouraged” to sit down and eat — often whether they were hungry or not. Cooking for others was one of her purest expressions of love.

Her greatest earthly love was her husband, Carlton, with whom she shared a rare and beautiful 61-year journey of life, laughter, and devotion.

In her final days, she found peace in listening to the old gospel hymns she cherished, surrounded by family and filled with grace. She will be missed deeply but remembered always.

A private family service followed by interment at Lake Lawn Park Cemetery in New Orleans was held on Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025.

Condolences may be shared online at www.leitzeaganfuneralhome.com.