Gary Lee Freeman

Gary Lee Freeman, age 78, passed away peacefully at his home on March 27, 2024.  He was born in Forsyth County on April 1, 1945, to Joseph and Ida Freeman.

Gary went to North Davidson High School and graduated in 1963. High School is where he met his soulmate, Janet.  He was a loving husband to Janet for 55 years.  His wife, kids, their spouses, and grandchildren were the most important part of his life.  His love for God was the foundation of his family.  He attended Good Hope Methodist Church.

After attending Danville Tech, Gary enlisted in the Air Force to serve his country.  Upon returning home, he began his career that spanned 53 years.  Through those 53 years, he drove and owned Modifieds that ran at the famed Bowman Gray Stadium, started a business recapping tires and selling McCreary race tires, then ultimately became the Asphalt Distributor for Hoosier Racing Tire to the Southeast United States in 1999.

Known as the “Cigar Man” in the Modified community, he played a pivotal role in the creation of the Smart Modified Tour in 1998, as well as, its resurrection in 2021.  For 25 years, Hoosier Tire South and Gary Freeman have been a staple at racetracks in the Southeast.  On any given Saturday night, he could be found at a racetrack, hanging out and enjoying his favorite sport.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Ida Freeman, and two brothers, Danny Freeman and Sammy Gray Freeman.

Gary is survived by his loving wife, Janet Hege Freeman, of the home, son Jeffrey Lee Freeman (Marissa) of Lexington, daughter Summer Freeman Goodrich (Steve) of Lexington, brother Tim Freeman (Amy) of Churchland, sister Carolyn Walser (Talbert) of Lexington, sister-in-law Debra Freeman of Lexington and three grandchildren, Saylor, Piper, and Gracyn.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, April 2,2024, at Davidson Funeral Home Hickory Tree Chapel with Pastor Johnny Lord officiating.  Visitation will take place from 12:30-2:00 pm prior to the service.  Entombment will follow at Forest Hill Memorial Park Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Gary’s name to Gideons International.

The staff at Davidson Funeral Home Hickory Tree Chapel is honored to be serving the Freeman family during this difficult time, offering comfort and support.

Online condolences may be made at www.davidsonfuneralhome.net