Richard William Freel, 81, of Greensboro, Georgia, 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 valedictorian of his class from Plant High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Georgia Tech. He served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War from 1970 to 1971.
On August 9, 1975, he married Caroline Grant in Demorest, Georgia. The couple spent more than 35 years in Atlanta, where they raised their three daughters.
At their home on the Chattahoochee River, Dick tirelessly cleared brush, always working to improve the view he loved. After retiring to Lake Oconee in Greensboro in 2009, he and Caroline enjoyed traveling throughout North America and Europe with friends. He remained active in retirement, playing pickleball, poker, completing crossword puzzles, and never missing an episode of “Jeopardy!”
He is survived by his daughters, Carrie Barnes of Charleston, South Carolina; Mandy Freel of Asheville, North Carolina; and Laura Freel of Atlanta, Georgia; and his granddaughter Bentley of Charleston, South Carolina.
Richard was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Caroline; his sister, Jane Stinson; and his son-in-law, Tommy Barnes.
Instead of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Dick’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association at 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, Georgia, (706) 453-2626.