Freeman Burdette Smith

Freeman Burdette Smith, 94, of Manchester, Iowa, passed away surrounded by his family, on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at the Good Neighbor Home in Manchester. He was born on May 12, 1931, on his family's farm outside of Buck Creek, the son of Freeman and Berniece (Aldrich) Smith. Freeman was raised and educated in the area and graduated from Buck Creek High School. After his graduation, Freeman attended Upper Iowa College for one year. Freeman then served his country honorably in the United States Navy during the Korean War.
On June 3, 1951, Freeman was united in marriage to Jean Richardson at the Golden Congregational Church in Ryan. Four children were born to this union. Freeman was a lifelong farmer. He and Jean farmed together north of Manchester until their retirement in 1989. The couple then moved to their home south of Manchester.
Freeman was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Manchester. He was a proud member of the Manchester American Legion Post #45 and the Manchester Masonic Lodge #165. Freeman loved music, dancing with Jean, and also teaching square and round dancing to others. The couple were longtime members of the Country Cousins Square Dancing Club. Their Do-Si-Do license plates signaled to others their love of dancing. He loved to do things for his children and grandchildren and cherished spending time with them.
Survivors include his three daughters, Delma (David) Hardin of Manchester, Delana (Doug) Schulte of Waukee, and Sherrie (Glen) Bockenstedt of Manchester; one son, David (Julie) Smith of Manchester; 13 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; three siblings, Roger (Beverly) Smith, Eunese (Laverne) Roberg, and Gordon (Freda) Smith; and many nieces and nephews.
Freeman was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Jean, in 2020; and a sister, Delma Smith.
In lieu of flowers, Freeman's family requests that memorials be directed to either the First Presbyterian Church or Good Neighbor Home.
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