Tony Freeman

James Anton "Tony" Freeman passed away on Friday, July 18, 2025, in Abilene, Texas, surrounded by his family. Tony was born on July 3, 1957, in Stamford, Texas, to Bertha (Kainer) and James Freeman. He graduated from Stamford High School and went on to attend Western Texas College and Southwest Texas State University.
On September 18, 1981, Tony married the love of his life, Billie Jo Baitz, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Together they raised their son, Josh. Tony deeply valued relationships and considered many close friends as family, earning the title of "Uncle Tony" by many beyond just relatives.
At the age of 15, he began his career in the oil field alongside his stepfather, Gene Bounds. He maintained a lifelong passion for the industry and cherished his many friends he met along the way. He was always eager to talk shop with anyone who would listen. Tony's rig broke a record in 2018 with the longest Permian Basin well at the time of a measured depth of 26,150 feet and a lateral of 15,879 feet.
In his younger days, he enjoyed horseback riding and competing in rodeos as a bull rider. He had a passion for Harley Davidsons and his many outings on them. Tony had a deep love and respect for all animals.
Tony was known for his caring nature. He was also notorious for his jokes and quick sense of humor, whether you needed them or not. He loved spending time at the lake with family and friends and attending stock shows with his son, Josh. He was involved in the community, helping with FFA activities and supporting Faith Lutheran Church in Sagerton, Texas.
Tony was preceded in death by his parents, Bertha Bounds and James Freeman, and his brother, Jerome Bounds.
He is survived by his wife, Billie Jo of Clyde; son, Josh of Austin; bonus son, Jordan Sale of Austin; niece and great nephew, Andrea and Ethan Schmidt of Amarillo, who he cherished as his own; sisters, Cherry Willhoite and Judy Clifford (husband, Kevin), both of Abilene; stepfather, Eugene Bounds of Abilene; sisters-in-law, Landra Post of Merkel and Rhonda Baitz of Abilene; nephews, Jason Wilson, Cole Wilson, Justin Bounds, Brendon Bounds, Cary Epley, Greg Epley, and Darin Epley; as well as many great nieces, great nephews, other extended family, and his canine companions, Gracie and Gus.
The family would like to thank the staff at Chisholm Place for providing great care for Tony over the last few months. We also thank Dr. Allen Schultz and employees, as well as the staff at both MD Anderson and Texas Oncology.
In accordance with Tony's wishes, no funeral will be held. A celebration of life may be planned at a later date. Memorials can be made to the donor's favorite charity in his memory.