May 7, 1931 — March 13, 2026
Richard I. Freeman, age 94, a longtime Reading resident, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026, at the Sawtelle Hospice House in Reading.
Born in Boston, MA, on May 7, 1931, he was the son of the late Arthur and Mariam (Irwin) Freeman. He was raised and educated in Whitman. After graduating from Whitman High School, Richard enlisted in the Navy. He served four years of active duty and four years of reserves. When he returned from active service, he settled in Reading, MA. Dick then earned a degree at Northeastern University. As an active member of The Grange, he was a fixture at the Topsfield Fair for many years. Always quick with a smile and eager to share his knowledge. Dick was a kind man, a gentle giant who was always working to care for others.
He was the beloved husband of the late Gwendolyn Dean Freeman and a longtime loving partner to the late Anne McAvenia. He is survived by: Catherine (McAvenia) DuPont of Wakefield, Jeanne (McAvenia) Boudreau and her husband of Billerica, Theresa (McAvenia) Penza of Tewksbury, Steve McAvenia of Medford, Joanne (McAvenia) DuPuis of No Andover, Robin Smith and her husband Steve of Cartage, MO, also ten grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
His Funeral Service will be held in the McDonald Funeral Home, 19 Yale Ave., Wakefield, on Wednesday, March 18, at 11am. Visitation for relatives and friends will be held prior to the service from 10am-11am. Interment, Puritan Lawn Memorial Park, Peabody.
