Dateline: Spruce Pine, North Carolina

With heartfelt sorrow yet profound gratitude for a life well lived, we announce that Brenda M. Freeman, age 85, of Spruce Pine, North Carolina, peacefully departed this earthly realm on April 28, 2026, to be forever in the presence of the Lord. A beloved daughter of the late George and Bessie McKinney Rathbone, Brenda was a cherished native of Mitchell County, North Carolina.

Throughout her life, Brenda was a devoted member of Roan Mountain Baptist Church, where her faith served as a guiding light. She dedicated many years to Coats American in Marion, North Carolina, before retiring with dignity. In her retirement, she embraced the role of caregiver with loving devotion to friends and family, reflecting her generous and compassionate spirit. Brenda found joy and solace in tending to her garden, nurturing vibrant flowers, and delighting in the simple pleasures of feeding and watching the birds. Above all, she treasured the precious moments spent with her granddaughter, a bond that illuminated her later years.

Brenda was preceded in death by her husband, Coleman Freeman, as well as her beloved siblings: Trula Gardner, Emory Rathbone, Cleo Wilson, Gladys Jones, Georgia Riddle, Rosa Lee Ledford, Orlie Rathbone, and Wilkie Rathbone.

She leaves behind a legacy of love in the hearts of those who knew her, including her devoted son, Jim Freeman and his wife Lisa of Old Fort, North Carolina; her sister, June Frye and her husband Phillip of Spruce Pine, North Carolina; her treasured granddaughter, Ashley Waycaster and her husband Cody; and her three beloved great-grandchildren, Liam, Aurora, and Autumn Waycaster.

A celebration of Brenda’s life will take place on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 3:00 PM at Roan Mountain Baptist Church, with Reverend Mark McKinney officiating. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Green–Young Cemetery.

Henline–Hughes Funeral Service is privileged to assist the Freeman family during this time of remembrance.