Milton Alfred Freeland, of Southport, died Oct. 1, 2015, at the age of 89.
He was a resident of Newport News, Virginia for over 68 years before moving to Southport to be closer to family. Milton, often called “Slim,” was born Dec. 28, 1925, in Chapel Hill to George Washington Freeland and Creola Bella Freeland.
He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1946 on the USS Ringness during WWII. After the war he joined the Reserves, serving from 1947 to 1955. After his service to his country he was employed by Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company for 40 years.
He was preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife Mary Hansley Freeland. She was 15 and Milton 17 in 1943 when they married. Their 49 years of married life was an example to their children of the respect and devotion necessary in a good marriage.
Milton is survived by his daughter, Linda Freeland Cotter, of Fort Worth, Texas; son, Tom Freeland (Kay), of Southport; grandchildren, Brian Cotter, of Fort Worth, Texas, Michael Cotter (Christy), of Charlotte, Mark Freeland, of Winston-Salem, David Freeland (Jillian), of Stephenson, Virginia and Emily Freeland Songer (Ryan), of Elkin; and great-granddaughters, Megan Cotter, of Charlotte, Nevaeh, Lailah, Anna Bella and Ezra Freeland, of Stephenson, Virginia and Gabriella Jael Songer, of Elkin.
After Mary’s death, dad built their dream home, naming it “Mary’s Acres.” He took joy in keeping the yard immaculate. He has been a member of New Market Baptist Church since 1992.
A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2015, at Peninsula Memorial Park, officiated by his grandson, David.
We will gather to say farewell to a hardworking, strong father and granddad. May his life example continue to teach us as we mature in our own lives. Thank you, Dad.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Lower Cape Fear Hospice, 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Please leave online condolences for the family at Peacock Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service.
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