Bishop Theodore Anthony Freeman

Bishop Theodore Anthony Freeman Sr. was born on November 19, 1925 in Sanford, Florida. His parents were Fenner Smith and Andrew Jackson Freeman, but he was raised by his Aunt Maidie. He attended schools in Florida and after completing the 8thgrade he decided to discontinue his education in effort to help support his family. At the age of 15, he received the Holy Ghost speaking in other tongues. In his later teens he became an Apostolic minister but like many Americans, when he saw the attack on Pearl Harbor, that was a call to action. At the young age of 19, Theodore enlisted in the U.S. Naval service and started active duty on January 28, 1944. He was stationed on the USS Missouri naval ship and was classified as a Stewart Mate First Class. This was the highest ranking that a black sailor could obtain. Even so, he still fought valiantly and was able to witness the historic moment, when Japan signed the peace treaty with the United States. After an honorable discharge from service in 1946, Theodore would go on to unite in holy matrimony to Martha Shelton from Champaign-Urbana, Illinois. Following his move to Illinois, Theodore and Martha (deceased) became the parents of 4 children, Darol (deceased), Theodore Jr., David, and Nathan. For over 25 years he worked two jobs, at the University of Illinois and Chanute Air Force Base, from both of which he was able to successfully retire. In 2005 he was ordained a Bishop at Twin City Apostolic Church. After the death of his wife, Martha Freeman, Theodore then later married Zetter Freeman (deceased). He loved the Lord, his work and his family. He was well-known for when the spirit hit him to shout, “OH GLORY” and also for singing the famous, “Stop Now, It’s Praying Time”.He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving Children, Theodore A. Freeman Jr. (Angela), David Freeman (Elaine), and Nathan Freeman (Jeanette); grandchildren, LeDarol “Chico” Hines, Stephanie Freeman, David McKinley Freeman Jr., Toni Porter, Nathan Freeman Jr., Julius Freeman; great-grandchildren; cousins from the Carolinas; many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and spiritual family.

A Home Going Celebration will commence at 11:30 am on July 17, 2020 at Center of Hope Church 1109 N. 4th St.Champaign, IL 61820, Officiating Bishop Ervin Williams. Visitation will begin at 10:30 am until the time of the service. Internment will follow after at WoodLawn Lincoln Cemetery.

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