Jerome "Jerry" P. Freeman, born August 1, 1933, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2025, at home after leading a long and rich life. Jerry was the adored son of Arthur Joseph Sr. and Felice (Swords) Freeman, and the beloved younger brother of John, Lawrence, Felice and Arthur Jr., all who proceeded him in death.

Uncle Jerry bookended the beginning and end of his long life in Springfield, Illinois. He spent the first part of his life living at home. When he turned twelve, he and his sister moved to Jefferson, Wisconsin, and Jerry enrolled at St. Coletta School where Felice worked as a nurse. At St. Coletta, he received a fine education preparing him for work and semi-independent living. Jerry became an integral member of school life and the Jefferson community. Upon retirement, he moved back to Springfield to live in a quiet home and do volunteer work well into his 80s.

Uncle Jerry loved to drink coffee all day long. He was a big fan of Johnny Cash, fireworks, flags, and parades, and had a keen interest in police, law enforcement, and fire fighters. Uncle Jerry loved to travel. Trains, planes, buses – anything that made noise and moved fast pleased him tremendously. He especially loved long, luxurious car rides with any one of his adoring nieces and nephews: John Jr., Michael, Joseph, Thomas, sons of John and Wyona Freeman; Donna, Mary Joan, Janet, Larry Jr., Jeanine, Paul, Timothy and Kelly, children of Larry and Edna Freeman; Maureen, Tom, Teresa and Richard, children of Joseph and Felice Lenz; Kathy, Patrick, Ann, Art and Jeanie, children of Arthur Jr. and Marilyn Freeman.

Many of Uncle Jerry’s nieces and nephews recently assembled in Springfield to celebrate his 90th birthday. He was thrilled with the photo albums, cakes and adoring relatives, but one guest was a total surprise and delight: Brother Boniface, a friend and supervisor from St. Coletta School. Uncle Jerry’s life will be celebrated in 2026 during his favorite season, fishing season. Rest in peace and love, dear Uncle Jerry.

Visitation and Funeral Ceremony: Family will receive friends from 9:00 to 9:45 a.m. on Friday, December 5, 2025, at Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield, followed by the Ceremony at 10:00 a.m., with family and friends speaking. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery