Obituary of Lorena Freeman

Lorena Freeman was born on December 20, 1908 in Hickory, North Carolina. She played the trumpet at Upshaw High School in Hickory. She later worked in retail and was also the Organist for the Morning Star Baptist Church. In 1945, Mother Freeman relocated to Jognson City, Tennessee. After a brief stay, she returned to North Carolina where she met and married the late Joseph L. Freeman, who was a chef in the United States Army. When Mr. Freeman received orders to report to Fort Dix, they relocated to Beverly, New Jersey. Once settled in Beverly, Mother Freeman became very active in the community. She was a Scout Leader for the Girl Scout Troop #125 and served as secretary for the Beverly City School PTA. She united and joined the Macedonia Baptist Church where she served on the Foreign Mission; she was a Sunday School Teacher; President of Missionary Circle; Deaconess Board and and Church Organist. Mother Freeman was truly the "Mother" of the church. Through her travels, conversations and testimonies she would be known for singing her favorite hymn, "Keep On Using Me." Lorena Freeman leaves to cherish her memory; Esther and Wallace Benson, Sr.; grandchildren, Wallace and Jacqueline Benson, Rhonda Benson, Terrance and Melissa Benson. Also; twelve great grandchildren; five great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. Lorena Freeman's love and compassion for children blessed her with three children. Cynthia Crawford Brayant, Ethel "Cookie" Fisher and Lorena Shafer; special caregivers, Theresa Gillette and Estelle Walden.