Jeraldine Freely-Lee

"To everything, there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven; a time to be born… a time to die…" Eccl. 3:1-2

A TIME TO BE BORN: Jeraldine Freely Lee, lovingly known as Nancy, was born on July 11, 1946, in Montgomery, Alabama, to Mr. and Mrs. Isom and Emma L. Freely, Jr. She was the fourth of six children in the Freely family. Nancy had a joyful childhood, surrounded by the love and care of her parents and siblings. Her warm-hearted nature and compassionate demeanor endeared her to family and friends from an early age.

A TIME TO GROW: During Nancy's formative years, the Clinton Chapel AME Zion Church Family nurtured, instructed, and loved her. Nancy had a thirst for knowledge and pursued her education with diligence. She attended Booker T. Washington High School, where she demonstrated her dedication to learning and her commitment to excellence. Later, she furthered her education at Alabama State University, where she continued to shine academically.

On November 25, 1972, she married the love of her life, Luther Lee. Together, they created a loving home and shared countless cherished memories. Their union was blessed with two loving sons, Christopher Lee and Darrell Lee, whom Nancy adored and supported in all their endeavors.

A TIME TO WORK: "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might..." Ecclesiastes 9:10 (NIV) was the guiding principle of Nancy's life. Her career was marked by hard work and dedication. Nancy served the community for many years at a popular downtown clothing store, Tops, where she displayed a flair for fashion and a warm smile to all who visited the shop. Subsequently, from 1977 to 1980, she worked at Winn Dixie, where her amiable nature made her a favorite among customers and colleagues alike.

Nancy had a creative spirit and a gift for sewing. She pursued her passion for fashion and design by becoming an accomplished seamstress. Her talent and attention to detail were evident in every stitch, and she took pride in creating beautiful garments for her family and friends. Additionally, Nancy was the consummate cook. She took pride and joy in preparing meals for the family daily. 

A TIME TO SERVE: Guided by her faith, Nancy was an active member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Her spirituality was a guiding light in her life, and she found comfort and strength in her beliefs. As a devoted member of her church community, she participated in various activities and events, fostering lasting friendships along the way.

One of the most significant roles in Nancy's life was that of a devoted daughter. She selflessly served as the primary caregiver for her beloved mother, Emma, for many years. Her unwavering love and dedication brought comfort and support to her mother during her later years, creating a bond that will be cherished forever.

A TIME TO DIE: We are inspired by Nancy's "strong fight." During her brief illness, she continued to praise God. No matter how much pain she was experiencing, she continued to lift up the name of Jesus. On July 24, 2023, Nancy's journey in this life came to an end. She now sleeps in Jesus, awaiting His call when He returns to carry His children to their heavenly home. Nancy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Luther Lee, who passed away in 2017. She was also preceded in death by her father, Isom Freely, Jr., her mother, Emma Freely, her brother, William Freely, and her sister, Ernestine German. Additionally, she was preceded by her nephew, Tyrone German.

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith."  II Timothy 4:7.

A TIME OF REMEMBRANCE: Nancy leaves behind a legacy of love and fond memories in the hearts of her family. She is survived by her two loving sons, Christopher Lee and Darrell Lee, both of Montgomery, AL; a devoted sister, Dorothy F. Webb, Montgomery, AL; two compassionate brothers, Isom Freely, III, and Carl O. (Catherine) Freely, both of Montgomery, AL; aunts, Otelia (James) Holt, Montgomery, AL, Mattie R. Thomas, Louisville, KY; a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and other extended family members and friends, and a special friend, Ernestine Gordon.

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