It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of William Otis Freeman on January 6, 2025, in Tacoma, Washington. He was 97 years old.

William was born on May 6, 1927, in Birmingham, Alabama, to Hazel and Jesse Freeman Sr. He proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1946 to 1966, including deployments during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Following his distinguished military career, William worked as a food service manager from 1966 to 1999, serving in Tacoma and on the Alaskan Pipeline.

A man of many talents, William was an exceptional chef and had a passion for painting, gardening, pottery, and fitness. His dedication to health and wellness earned him the title of Regional King with the TOPS Club (Take Off Pounds Sensibly).

William was a devoted father, a hardworking provider, and a mentor who inspired countless others with his positivity and resilience. He will be remembered as a beacon of light and strength by all who knew and loved him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Hazel and Jesse Freeman Sr., and his siblings, Jesse Freeman Jr., Dorothy Faush, and Alice Miller. William is survived by his loving children, Ralph Freeman, Leroy Freeman, Clarice Freeman, and Bernadette Foreman; his sister, Jacquelyn Callins; 11 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. His cherished family and friends in both Birmingham and Tacoma mourn his passing and celebrate his remarkable life.

William will be laid to rest at Tacoma National Cemetery in a private burial with his close family present.