Richard William Freel

Richard William Freel, 81, of Greensboro, GA, passed away in his sleep on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. “Dick” was a devoted husband, caring father and proud grandfather.  Born in Tampa, Florida, on October 13, 1944, he was the son of the late John Veal Freel and Sue Lowe Freel. He graduated as the valedictorian of his class from Plant High School and earned a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Georgia Tech. Dick served in the United States Navy in Vietnam from 1970 - 1971. 

On August 9, 1975, he married Caroline Grant in Demorest, GA. The couple spent over 35 years in Atlanta raising their three daughters. At their home on the Chattahoochee River, Dick tirelessly cleared brush, always striving for a better view. After retiring to Lake Oconee in Greensboro in 2009, Dick and Caroline enjoyed traveling throughout North America and Europe with friends, and he remained active playing pickleball, poker, completing crossword puzzles and never missing an episode of Jeopardy.

He is survived by his daughters, Carrie Barnes of Charleston, SC, Mandy Freel of Asheville, NC, and Laura Freel of Atlanta, GA; and his granddaughter, Bentley of Charleston, SC. Richard was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Caroline; his sister, Jane Stinson; and his son-in-law, Tommy Barnes.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Dick’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association - alz.org. 

A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Friends and family are invited to sign the online guest register at www.mccommonsfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are being handled by McCommons Funeral Home, 109 W. Broad St., Greensboro, GA, (706) 453-2626.

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