I’m taking a break from local issues today to share news of my mother’s passing. She was known by many in the Northfield community, some of whom may wonder of her or who may wish my father condolences.
My sister and I wrote her obituary yesterday. It felt like we were writing the resume of her life. There’s really no way to capture a sense of soul in a brief, factual chronology of a loved one’s work, accomplishments, and interests. But for the record, I’ll share the obituary. Then I’ll add something a little more personal.
Mary Freeman (1938-2016)
Mary K. Freeman of Northfield VT passed away peacefully on November 25, 2016, in Sarasota, Florida.
She is survived by her husband, David Freeman, two daughters, Betty Capron-Herrick and Rosie Laquerre, two sons, Richard Freeman and Nathan Freeman, seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren as well as many beloved nieces, nephews and their families.
Mary felt a deep commitment to her work, her community, and social life. She was a dot-the-I’s-and-cross-the-T’s bookkeeper and was a fixture at the Follett Bookstore at Norwich University. Mary served as a Lister for the town of Northfield and was a long-time member of the Northfield Business & Professional Association. Mary was Treasurer of the NBPA for several years.
Mary put in countless hours with David to create the inaugural Labor Day Parade and Bicentennial Celebration in 1975. She and David were honored to have been named as Grand Marshals of the Labor Day parade for their behind-the-scenes dedication to our community.
Mary was a member of the Northfield Historical Society and a parishioner at St. John the Evangelist church. She was an active member of the Eastern Star, serving as Chapter Secretary in Northfield.
Funeral services will be held May 20, 2017 with arrangements by Kingston Funeral Home.
Condolences may be sent to:
David Freeman1800 Englewood Rd. Unit 165Englewood, FL 34223
On a personal note, I’d like to say to those who have lost a parent, I now know your pain. My heart is with you if you have experienced such a loss. For those who haven’t, my heart will be with you when that time comes.
My mother was a good and fine lady, likely much like yours. She was resistant to change, but when my father led the way she adapted and found new ways of finding happiness.
One of the most significant changes was the sale of their home on Freeman Road. The Freeman family isn’t broad in numbers but we are deep in local heritage and tradition. The idea of moving off the hill wasn’t popular with my mother, but the reality of retirement and the need to downsize was evident. My parents made a new home closer to town and began to winter in a Gulf Coast town south of Sarasota. I must say, her smile was vibrant in Florida. She danced, rode a bicycle, and went swimming in her retirement community.
My father, David, stood by my mother’s side as her husband, life companion, and over the last few years, as her primary caregiver. He’s reached an important milestone in his life more dramatic than any other, and one I can’t possibly imagine. My hope is that he finds a new happiness in the years to come.
Officer Dan, 
involvement yet,” Christine said. “Sally Davidson was down here yesterday. We just want the Common to look good.”