“Who can find a virtuous woman, for her worth is far above jewels.” Bea entered her earthly life on May 25, 1921, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J.T. Smith. She grew up and lived much of her adulthood in Clayton, N.C. It was here she met and married her love of 63 years, Ted Freeman. Her life was dedicated first to her Lord and then to her family. Her children, June and Jim Nance, her grandchildren Kathryn and Adam Roark and great-grandchildren, Ted and Mary James, will forever call her “Blessed.” Her calling was that of a “Prayer Warrior.” Her greatest joy was praying for others, which she did freely and with abundant faith.

Granny Bea and Ted moved to Washington in 1974 and made their home at 216 Dogwood Drive. Ted has been waiting to welcome her to their new address, in Glory, for almost three years. This joyful reunion occurred on the morning of April 4. Celebrating with them are all the Saints that have preceded them, and Jesus Himself. This celebration will be eternal.

Granny Bea wrote her obituary by her walk: something words and lists cannot begin to capture. She has now been greeted by her Lord and Savior with the words, “Well done thy good and faithful servant.”

Granny Bea also lovingly leaves her “adopted” family: Martha Ann Windley and those who so faithfully and lovingly cared for her at River Trace on the second hall. She leaves you with this reminder: to read Psalms 91 each morning.

A graveside service will be held Friday, April 6, 2012, at 11 a.m. at Maplewood Cemetery, N.C. Highway 70 West, Clayton, officiated by Dr. Jimmy Moore with a celebration of her life to occur at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to her community of believers, the First Baptist Church of Washington, music ministry, 113 N. Harvey St., Washington, NC 27889.

You may share a memory with the family by visiting www.hillsidefuneralservice.com.

Hillside Funeral Service & Cremations, 4500 U.S. Highway 264 East, Washington, has been given the honor of being entrusted with serving the Freeman family.