Robert Edward Freer

EDENTON, NC - Robert Edward Freer, age 88, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2025, surrounded by his loving daughters. He was born on July 12, 1937, to William Freer and Sarah Freer, and was born and raised in Philadelphia, a city he cherished throughout his life.
Robert often reminisced about his Philadelphia childhood-jumping on the trolley, playing under open fire hydrants during hot summer days, swimming in the Schuylkill River, and later in life challenging himself by running the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, something he greatly enjoyed. These memories reflected a joyful youth, a strong spirit, and a lifelong connection to the city that shaped him.
In 1956, Robert joined the United States Navy as a reservist, becoming active duty in 1957. His distinguished military career spanned 24 years, during which he proudly served his country. His service included support during the Cuban Missile Crisis, Mediterranean cruises, and providing vital communications support to SEAL Team 2 as part of a mobile communications team. He retired as a Chief Petty Officer, with his final duty station at COMNAVAIRLANT / SURFLANT in Norfolk, Virginia.
Following his retirement from the Navy, Robert continued his lifelong connection to the water, working for Allied Towing as a tanker man for 20 years, a role that reflected both his strong work ethic and his enduring love of the sea.
Robert married his high school sweetheart, Claire, and together they shared 64 years and four days of marriage, just short of their 65th anniversary. They later settled in Edenton, North Carolina, where they spent 24 years living along the Chowan River, enjoying the water and countless breathtaking sunsets together. Claire preceded him in death five years ago.
Robert lived a life defined by quiet strength, honor, and devotion-to his family, his country, and the water he loved so deeply. Those who knew him will remember his steady presence, integrity, gentle humor, and the stories he loved to share.
He is survived by his children: Robert Freer II, Claire Kellam, Susan Baker, and David Freer; his sons-in-law: Russ Baker and Douglas Kellam; his daughter-in-law: Wendy Freer; his sister, Mary-Kane Florence Evans; his sister-in-law, Kathy Freer; his grandchildren: Shannon Neas, Douglas Kellam, Matthew Kellam, Jeremiah Baker, Jacob Baker, Anna Baker, Robert Freer III, Chandler Freer, Chelsea Freer, Cohen Freer, and Joshua Kellam; his great-grandchildren: Regan Kellam, Kennedy Kellam, Claire Neas, James Neas, Jacy Reuter, Kaia Reuter, Wyoit Reuter, Noah Kellam, Isabel Kellam, Wesley Kellam, and Elijah Levi; and many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly, along with extended family members who will cherish his memory.
Services will be held at Albert G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans' Cemetery on January 16th at 1:00 PM, with a Celebration of Life immediately following at Asheville Park Clubhouse. Donations may be made directly to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516 or online by clicking here; directly to ALSAC/St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or online by clicking here; or directly to Shriners Hospitals for Children, PO Box 947765, Atlanta, GA 30394 or online by clicking here. These foundations were very special to Robert and Claire.
Robert is now reunited with his beloved Claire, watching over his family with the same love and devotion he showed throughout his life.
Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service, Ahoskie Chapel is handling the arrangements for the Freer family, and friends may leave online condolences for the Freer family by visiting garrettsykesfs.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert, please visit our floral store.