Mary Virginia Criswell Freeman, 89, died February 20, 2022 at home in Nashville, Tennessee. Mary was a faithful daughter, a devoted wife, and a loving mother and grandmother. She was a kindhearted, beautiful woman with a strong faith.
Mary was born in Nashville, Tennessee, on June 18, 1932. She was the daughter of Virginia Jenkins Criswell and William Henry Criswell. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 64 years, James Richard Freeman and by her sister, Jo Ann Criswell Harper. She is survived by her children: Dr. William Criswell Freeman (Angela), Mary Jo Freeman Johnson (Kirk “Jelly Roll”), and Donna Sue Freeman. Mary is also survived by her grandchildren: Dr. Mary Susan Freeman McConnell (Sean), Virginia Criswell Kelley, Tricia Kelley Crocker (Charlie), and Carli Freeman, and by her great-granddaughter, Abiella McConnell. Additionally, she is survived by beloved nieces, nephews, and their children.
Mary was born at the family’s home on Ashwood Avenue in Nashville. She grew up in Donelson, Tennessee where she graduated from Donelson High School. She attended Peabody College and studied elementary education.
On April 24, 1948, Mary met the love of her life, Dick Freeman. They were married on June 10, 1952.
Mary was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church and an associate member of Moorings Presbyterian Church in Naples, Florida where she served as a Stephen Minister.
Mary was a member of the Lebanon Road Garden Club for 67 years. She was also a member of the National Society of Colonial Dames and the Magna Charta Dames. Additionally, Mary and her late husband were active participants in numerous civic and charitable organizations. Freeman Hall at Belmont University was named in their honor.
Mary and Dick lived full and adventurous lives, and they loved to travel. They enjoyed all their travels, but they felt most at home in Naples and Monteagle, where they maintained residences.
Mary’s life was enriched by the dedicated staff at Richland Place, by the caregivers from Serving Our Seniors, and by the compassionate medical staff at Alive Hospice.
A private family service will be conducted on February 24, 2022 at Hermitage Memorial Gardens, Old Hickory, Tennessee. Honorary pallbearers include nieces and nephews, members of the Lebanon Road Garden Club, Christopher Allen Raquet, Thanh Nguyen, and Becky Seul. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Westminster Presbyterian Church, 3900 West End Avenue, Nashville, TN 37205, to Alive Hospice, or to the Nashville Rescue Mission.
