Mary Jane Freeman

Mary Jane Freeman, 87, of Aberdeen, WA, after a long and fulfilling life, is now in the presence of her Savior, Jesus Christ, and reunited with her true love, Darrell Lee Freeman. Mary passed away peacefully February 5, 2025, at the home of her daughter, Sandra, and son-in-law, Richard, in Tacoma, WA.

Mary was born February 14, 1937, in Bryson City, North Carolina to John Arvil DeHart and Alice Mae (Truitt) DeHart. Mary married Darrell Lee Freeman November 22, 1952.

Mary spent the first part of her life in North Carolina. At age 27, she packed up her five children (newborn to 11 years-old) into a station wagon and, along with her brother Newell DeHart and his family, crossed the country to reunite with her husband, Darrell, to start a new life in Washington state. She brought her sense of adventure, humor, and Southern hospitality with her. She kept her North Carolinian accent, some would ask where she was from, she would laugh and say, “South Aberdeen”. 

She took on many roles in her life: daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Whether she was hosting holiday dinners, playing Christmas present pranks, or taking on leadership roles such as kitchen supervisor at a local nursing home, Mary lead with passion, compassion, and acceptance. 

Mary loved gardening, her family, people, and the Mariners. She never met a stranger that didn’t become family or a plant she couldn’t bring back to life. Her door was always open, her fridge stocked, and a pot of coffee ready for the next visitor. 

Mary is survived by several family members including children, Darlene S. Friberg, Sandra Martell (Richard), James Freeman, John Freeman, and Jack Freeman (Kimberly); grandchildren, Jessica Friberg, Amanda Anderson (Steve), Ninna Rednour (Leland), James Freeman, Darrell Freeman, Andrew Freeman (Claudia), Tiffany Maki (Bobby), and Heather Robarge (Jamie); and seven great-grandchildren. Mary is also survived by a sister, Rhonda Richardson, and several family members in North Carolina. 

Mary was adored by her family and will be greatly missed. We love you! 

A Celebration of Life service is planned for February 12, 2025, at 1p.m. at Fern Hill Funeral Home, Aberdeen, WA.