James Freeman

James (Jim) K Freeman, age 71, of Grayling, MI, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2025.

Born on June 29, 1954 in Flint, MI, Jim grew up in Mt. Morris, MI and was a proud graduate of Elisabeth Ann Johnson Memorial High School (’72). He then went to work at the family business, Freeman Pontiac, where he began a fulfilling career in the automotive industry. He was known for his strong work ethic, integrity, and commitment to excellence. He took great pride in his work and the relationships he formed along the way.

Deeply committed to his community, Jim gave countless hours volunteering with the Mt. Morris Band Boosters, supporting his four daughters, being a surrogate dad to many, and was an active member of the Mt Morris Zoning Board of Appeals. After retirement, Jim and wife, Sally, relocated to Grayling, where Jim worked as a part-time security officer in the local school. Over the last few years, he made several appearances as Santa Claus during the Grayling Promotional Association’s Festival of Trees. He was also the Vice President of the Friends of Hartwick Pines, a nonprofit organization with a passion for Hartwick Pines State Park, an annual destination for the family for 30+ years. Jim’s contributions left a lasting impact and reflected his generous spirit. Jim was a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ as part of The Way Ministry for 30 years. He was a faithful servant of God as a fellowship coordinator in Northern Michigan.

In his free time, Jim enjoyed cooking, blacksmithing, playing music with his folk music groups, camping and especially cherished time spent with family.

Family was at the heart of Jim’s life. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle; he is survived by his wife of almost 45 years, Sally (Woodbeck); four daughters: Amy (Dan) DeKorse, Holly (Dean) Rose, Carrie (Windell) Terry, and Audrey-Jo (Luis) Ramirez; 11 grandchildren: Vivian DeKorse, Hazel, Morgan, and Ian Finfrock, Daniel and Anthony Rose, Jackie and Ophelia Terry, and Isaac, Elijah, and Martie-Jo Ramirez; brothers Tom (Ronda) and Bill (Sandy) Freeman; brothers-in-law Bill (Julie) Woodbeck and Dan (Vickie) Woodbeck and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by parents Robert and Deloris Freeman. His family will remember him for his humor and the love he shared so freely.

A memorial will be held Saturday, January 3rd at the Crawford County Council on Aging Senior Center (4388 M-72 E., Grayling, MI 49738). Family will receive visitors 1:30 - 3:30 p.m., with a service 3:30 - 4:00 p.m. A larger celebration of life will take place in Summer 2026, details forthcoming. Jim was a very thankful organ transplant recipient. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages friends and loved ones to register as an organ donor with Gift of Life Michigan (www.golm.com/register).

Jim will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

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