Donn was a bit unusual, and we mean that in a good way. When he smiled you knew he meant it. When he talked about his childhood you knew those were heartfelt stories. When he cooked a meal he just wanted you to enjoy it. He knew his family was everything. He didn't need glamor, didn't need the spotlight; just needed to be a good guy who knew that life didn't have to be so complex, just do the right thing, be humble and kind, enjoy a good country meal, do what needs to be done. All a bit unusual these days. The world has lost a good guy, we've lost a good friend. 
 Sherri & Neal Branski

I came into your lives rather late.  You and Donn were trying to navigate very challenging times, and I was glad to help you with Christy whenever I could. Donn and Christy were quite the team and their bond was something special to witness.  Animals, especially dogs, are excellent judges of character.  Donn had a very kind soul and Christy just seemed to know he needed her a little more.  Now you, Christy, Erin and grandsons have two very special guardian angels watching over you.  Judy, I hope caring for your beautiful and expanding memorial garden gives you some comfort.  And now Christy will be YOUR little companion as you navigate this new normal.  Extending prayers and condolences to all of you.

My brother, Donn, inspired much of my life as I grew up. He was my roommate and guide until he left for college, five+ years older than me.  I learned to love sports, music, and science from him, and followed his work ethic. He had a grace and good advice for dealing with our loving parents and grandparents, so I (kinda) stayed out of trouble, thanks to him. We all owe him so much, but I owe him a lot of who I am, how I lived, and how I enjoyed life so much. I have habits today I trace to him. I'm so thankful for you, Donn. I'll see you too soon.
 - Richard

Dear Judy so sorry to hear of your loss . I think of you often and miss our book discussions. Bill and I just had our 65 anniversary and wonder where did all the time go. Seems so long ago we were all working at Duke but we had good times there and made so many friends. Love you and know that you are in our thoughts.

Donn was an old friend, a fraternity brother and my dentist for many years! God bless him and his family.

My dearest friend Judy, this is a beautiful tribute to your sweet  Donn.  For as long as I have known Donn and I have known him a long time as I shared in the exchange of your vowes, he was the most kind and gentle man I have ever known. I am so thankful that we had the opportunity to meet at the farmers market just a little over a month ago for a short visit. I will always cherish and remember that visit. Judy you are a strong and beautiful woman, but please remember sometimes it’s OK to not be OK. I’m here for you. Anytime you need me. I love you, my dear friend and I cherish your friendship.
  
~~Pam

Judy, I’m sending my love and support as you navigate this difficult loss of your wonderful life partner. Sending the same to the rest of your family and especially to little Christy, his faithful companion who also misses her Daddy so much. I am always drawn to the dog people and animal lovers and that’s one way I knew you and Donn were good people! The other way is when I saw how much my mom and dad thought of you both; they’ve always attracted the best people into our lives. I love you and they loved you and Donn too. I hope the three of them are having a sweet reunion together now.  It’s so hard losing the most important people in our lives. Thinking of you and will see you soon! ❤️❤️❤️

Donn was my roommate during our freshman year at Wake Forest. During the fall of that year (1964) I couldn’t make it to my home in upstate New York for Thanksgiving so Donn invited me to spend the holiday with him and his family in Kings Mountain. It was my first real experience with Southern hospitality (and home cooked ham biscuits!)
	In the spring (1965) Donn and I took a road trip to Myrtle Beach to enjoy spring break.
	One of our other adventures found Donn, me and another guy hitchhiking from Winston to Raleigh on Interstate 40 to watch a Wake (coached by, who else, Bones McKinney) NC State (coached by Everett Case) basketball game.
	Fond memories. 
Larry Wager,
WFU 1968

My dear friend Judy- to you and your family my deepest condolences. My prayers for comfort to you and Donn’s family.
Hugs and love Arlene

OBITUARY

Donn Bennett Freeman Jr.

October 17, 1945 – July 9, 2026

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