Elizabeth Taft "Ibby" Freeman

1921 - 2018

Elizabeth Taft Freeman, "Ibby" 97 of East Matunuck died September 12 after a brief illness. Born in Saunderstown, she was the daughter of Marianna (Gardner) Taft and Royal C. Taft, Jr. She was raised in Providence and Saunderstown and attended Lincoln School and Rosemary Hall. Ibby married Roger M. Freeman, Jr. who fell in love with her in the fourth grade. They enjoyed 55 years of marriage and raised their family in Providence.  Ibby volunteered for numerous organizations, including Butler Hospital and Animal Rescue Rhode Island, where she served as president and started the "Paws to Read" program.  She remained an active presence in her community for her full 97 years. She was quick to laugh and loved a funny story.
Ibby is survived by her daughters Elizabeth C. Freeman (Roly Coates) of New Ipswich, NH, Marianna F. Richardson (Bob) of Peace Dale, her daughter-in-law, Kelley Ann Freeman of Coventry, her beloved niece, Karen "Taffy" Wells of Portland, Oregon, 5 grandchildren, Aspen Richardson Javery of South Kingstown, Jesse F. Richardson of Augusta, Maine, Derek Bowes Freeman (Elena) of St. Petersburg, Florida, Michael Bowes Freeman of Pawtucket and Jessica Lotring, of Coventry, as well as 5 great-grandchildren.She was predeceased by her husband Roger, and her two sons, Roger M. Freeman III and Hayward T. Freeman.A memorial Service will be held at 12 o'clock on September 28 in the Historic Chapel at Swan Point Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Animal Rescue Rhode Island, 506B Curtis Corner Rd, Peace Dale, RI 02879. Condolences may be left at monahandrabbleshermanherman.com.