Freeman D. Pride

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. Freeman Pride.

Mr. Freeman Pride was born on December 23, 1940, to the late General Pride and Ruth Pride. He was raised in Thomasville, Florida, in Leon County, where he attended the local public schools. Freeman graduated from Lucy Moten High School (FAMU High) in 1959.

At an early age, Freeman accepted Christ and joined Friendship Primitive Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. Richard Matthews. Later in life, he became a member of New Mt. Zion AME Church, where he faithfully worshipped under the leadership of Pastor Michael Bell.

On Thursday morning, March 5, 2024, Freeman peacefully answered the Master's call and transitioned from labor to reward.

Freeman was known for his love of sports and music. During his youth he enjoyed playing baseball, track, and basketball, and he was also active in the Lucy Moten High School choir. He served as the Family Reunion president for 24 years. He was a class chaplain and served on the scholarship committee of FAMU/Lincoln High class of 1959. He remained a lifelong sports enthusiast and proudly supported the FAMU Rattlers and was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan.

Freeman leaves to cherish his precious memories his sons: Hector Pride (Kari), Alonza Pride, and Curtis Pride (Marcina); and his daughters: Pamela Sampson and Phyllis Simmons (Tony), all of Tallahassee, Florida. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Brown (Selmon) and his brother, David Pride.

Freeman leaves a loving legacy through his grandchildren: Kescia Troupe (Matthew), Dicarrio Jenkins (Janielle), Kiara Pride, Darius Lamar, all of Tallahassee, Florida; Latayja Pride of Jacksonville, Florida; and NaCya Pride Wates (Jermaine) of Hinesville, Georgia ; Jaquetta Maybin (Vernon) of Belton, TX).

He was also blessed with 31 great grandchildren, a devoted cousin Trisha Ann Johnson, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

He was p receded in death by his parents, G eneral and Ruth Pride, his brothers Freddie Miller, James Williams, and Leonard Pride.

Funeral service will be 11:00 A.M. FRIDAY, March 20, 2026 at NEw Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church, with burial at Oakland Cemetery.

Viewing will be from 12:00 (Noon) to 6:00 P.M. Thursday, March 19, 2026 at Strong & Jones Funeral Home.

On behalf of the staff and management of Strong & Jones Funeral Home, Inc., we would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the family of Mr. Freeman Pride.