ENGINEER MICHAEL LEE FREELAND

The Life of Michael Lee Freeland, affectionately known as “Mike,” began on February 19, 1985 in Jacksonville, Florida. He was born to Michael Steele and Terona S. Freeland. He attended the local public schools of Duval County, graduating from Ed White Senior High School – Class of 2003.   

Furthering his education, Mike attended Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University.  During his tenure, doctors discovered he had a rare form of cancer in his finger, which would later require an amputation and his unenrollment.  This was a very challenging moment in Mike’s young life but because of his determination, he didn’t give up and still pursued life. He continued his studies and later earned a Bachelor of Applied Science with Supervision in Management from Florida State College at Jacksonville.

At an early age, he accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior. He was a member of Shiloh Metropolitan Baptist Church, where he served as a member of the Health Ministry and Parking Lot Ministry.

Mike has always had a desire to work.  He has been afforded the opportunity of working for several companies, including Winn-Dixie, Foot Locker, the United States Post Service, NAPA Auto Parts, ADT, Caliber Patient Care and Agape Community Health Center.

Mike’s childhood dream was to one day become a race car driver.  He had a love and passion for vintage cars and would frequently attend car shows. Mike owned an array of cars and shoes.

The Mission of Mike’s life began when he became employed by Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department as a Firefighter, a decision he made to model the life of his fireman uncle, George.  Above all, Mike was dedicated to helping others. He excelled with great job performance in his career and was promoted to a Paramedic.  This profession gave him the rights of passage to be a modern-day hero, as he would show true by exemplifying his unwavering courage and commitment to service.

He has received numerous commendations for his heroic efforts, including receiving certification in Aircraft, Rescue and Firefighting.  In the Spring of 2019, Mike was promoted to an Engineer and was presently studying for the Lieutenants exam.

Other affiliations include being a member of MOBB Jeep Club.

He was predeceased by his great grandfather, James Cherry; great grandmother, Juanita C. Lightfoot; uncle, George Freeland, IV; great uncles, Leonard Freeland, Clarence Yates and Curtis Brown; fraternal grandmother, Linda Bailey; maternal grandparents, George W. Freeland, III and Jaquelyn Freeland.

The Purpose of Mike’s time on earth was shown to his community and to the world as he sacrificed his own life for the lives of others.  On November 11, 2021, while in the line of duty, Engineer Michael Lee Freeland went home to be with the Lord.   He leaves to cherish his memory his mother, Mrs. Terona S. Feacher (Roderic); father, Michael Steele; sisters, Lauryn Feacher, Kierra Steele and Niyah  Fischer; brothers, Jaylon Feacher, Jerrod Feacher and Tomaja Steele; grandfather, Curtis Bailey (Wanda); aunts, Lavonya Freeland and Lisa Drayton (Danny), uncles, Curtis Bailey, Jr. (Monique) and Carlos Bailey; fiancé, Brittany Jones; nine great aunts; three great uncles; a number of other relatives and friends.