James Freeman King

James Freeman King, 87, died at his home in Decatur, Georgia on Sunday, November 25, 2012. A lifelong resident of Macon, Freeman was predeceased by his wife of 60 years, Joyce Waller King; his parents, A.R. King, Sr. and Mamie Cranford King; and brother, A.R. King, Jr. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, November 29, 2012 in the chapel of Hart's at the Cupola, 6324 Peake Road, with the Reverends Greg Smith and Jimmy O'Dillon officiating. Burial will be at Macon Memorial Park. The family will greet friends for one hour prior to the service at the Cupola. Freeman attended Whittle Grammar School and Lanier High School for Boys. He left Lanier in his senior year for the United States Navy. He served aboard the USS Gilbert Islands as a member of the catapult crew. On his return from World War II, Freeman went to work at Southern Bell as a lineman. He worked his way up through the ranks to management position and was Manager of Coin Telephone Operations for Georgia when he retired in 1980. In 1947, he married Joyce and they began a life of love for each other and their children and many years dedicated Christian service at Tabernacle Baptist Church. He taught Sunday school classes, served as deacon, and was a member of the adult choir. His beautiful tenor voice was often heard singing solos in church and at weddings. He also played in a trumpet trio. He was a leader in the church music ministry and filled in as minister of music when Tabernacle was between leaders in this position. In 1966, he was recognized for his work in this area with "Freeman King Appreciation Day." Survivors are: daughters, Angie (Wes) Stuckey and Julia (David Stammer) King; son, Anthony King; nephews, A. R. King III, Felix King, Mike King; niece, Jane Robitsch; and a number of other family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tabernacle Baptist Church Building Fund or Tabernacle Lake Ministry, 6611 Zebulon Road, Macon, Georgia 31210 or to the charity of the donor's choice. Register online at www.hartsmort.com. Hart's Mortuary and Crematory at the Cupola has charge of arrangements.