Obituary of James G Freeman, Sr.

James G. Freeman, Sr., affectionately known as " Big Jim ", was called home to God's kindom of Glory on Monday, February 22, 2010 after a brief illness. He was the oldest son of the late Jesse and Ruth Freeman and was born in Philadelphia, Pa on January 9, 1939. "Big Jim" was raised in Berlin, NJ and was educated in Berlin Twp. School system. He later resided in Camden, NJ, where he met and married his first wife, the late Susan Washington in 1962. From this union they had two sons, James, Jr. "Glenn" and Patrick. Following Susan's death in 1978. "Big Jim" met and married Anna Elephant in 1988. This union brought together an extended family including Anna's two children, Keith and Lance Mitchell and a loving and caring home, where "Big Jim' as an excellent husband and father who was truly committed to family values as a man of God, a great provider and the tremendous work ethic he instilled in his children and step children. "Big Jim" began his employment career in 1962 with the Laborers International Union Local 222 and retired after 33 years as the Sergeant-at- Arms, a leadership position of which he was extremely proud. He was also a successful small business entrepreneur in Camden, and for many years owned "Big Jim's Steak House", which was extremely successful. He was also a member of Parkside United Methodist Church for many years under the spiritual charge of Pastor Calvin Woods. Following "Big Jim's retirement in 1995, he sold his business and spent his time enjoying life to the fullest. He was always dressed and dapper, drove the most luxurious imports and owned an unique vehicle that characterized his ambitious nature and zest for life. He was well known throughout the community and frequently visited family and friends, who were influenced by his many acts of kindness, respect for others, love of family gatherings and reunions and his desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew and loved him. "Big Jim" loved the LORD and his trust and faith in the LORD is reflected in John 3:16-"For God so loved the world, that he gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have everlasting life". "Big Jim's" legacy will be remembered and cherished by his beloved wife, Anna; loving sons, James, Jr, "Glenn" (Deneene) Freeman, Patricj (Stacey) Freeman, Keith (Keinya) Mitchell and Lance (Timeca) Mitchell; one brother, Jesse, Jr.; One uncle, James Freeman, (for who he was named); two aunts Virginia Freeman and Louella Freeman; seven sisters-in-law and five brothers-in-law Georgia R. Travis, Nettie O. Harris, Bobbie J. (Walter) Tyler, Rosie Mickie, Chris (Luther) Moore, Edna (Jerold) Fulton, Alvin Elephant and Willis Elephant; 17 grandchildren; 6 greta grandchildren; special cousins, Joseph "Leroy" Freeman and Philip Freeman, Sr. and a host of other cousins, relatives and friends. Lovingly submitted. The Family