Mary Guin Freeman, age 89, of Raleigh, passed away peacefully on November 8th in the presence of her family. She was born on July 24, 1935, the daughter of Albert and Pauline Guin of Raeford, NC. She was married to her high school sweetheart Leroy Frank ("Roy") Freeman of Raeford, for 65 years, and she lost the love of her life six years ago.

For Mary, family was always first. She and Roy were blessed with four children: Becky (Charley) Norkus of Raleigh, David (deceased as an infant), Paula (Rick) Anderson of Raleigh, and Joe (Carol) Freeman of Mooresville. They also have eight grandchildren: Christopher Nod, Caleb (Danielle) Norkus, Rebekah (Matt) Werner, Rachel Anderson, Ben (Paige) Anderson, Samantha, Brooke, and Casey Freeman, and eight great-grandchildren: Zoe, Gianna, and Ella Jane Werner, London and Oscar Norkus, Viviana, Camila, and Luisa Norkus. She was able to see them often at numerous family gatherings for birthdays, holidays and other celebrations. Mary also remained close to her two siblings, Janet (B.H.) McLean of Harrisburg, NC and Jim (Carol) Guin of Jamestown, NC, as well numerous nieces and nephews.

Mary had a lifelong love of books, and early in her career, she enjoyed working at Cokesbury Bookstore. She was also an astute businesswoman, founding two successful stores, Soccer Unlimited, in Winston-Salem and Charlotte. She then worked alongside Roy and Joe, doing the books for Freeman Screen Printers in Charlotte.

Throughout her life, Mary’s love for Jesus led her into many areas of service at church. She co-founded the Young Adults Sunday School program at her church in Charlotte and led it for many years. She also had a real heart for missions, serving as leader of the missions’ ministry, while also traveling overseas on mission trips, and hosting and supporting numerous missionaries. Another area close to her heart was Stephen Ministry, where she served as a caregiver and leader for many years.

Mary was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She and Roy’s love for the beach led them to buy a cottage which they shared with the entire family. All of us have great memories of playing games, eating popcorn, walking on the beach, and lots of laughter. They loved life and going on adventures, traveling, and having fun. They made new friends wherever they went, and their house was open to everyone. After Roy suffered a paralyzing accident, Mary lovingly cared for him during the remaining fifteen years of his life. Her example of dedication and sacrifice was an inspiration to her family and friends. She will be greatly missed (we love you, Mom).

A celebration of her life will be held at Crossroads Fellowship, 2721 E. Millbrook Rd., Raleigh on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to 3HC Home, Health & Hospice Care, at 3HC, 2402 Wayne Memorial Dr., Goldsboro NC 27534.