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Russell “Rusty” Freeman

November 14, 1948 - June 19, 2022
Service
First Baptist Church - Midland
Friday 6/24, 11:00 am
Memorial Service

Russell (Rusty) Leon Freeman, Jr., 73, of Midland passed away on Sunday, June 19, 2022 at home surrounded by his family after a very brief battle with cancer.

Rusty was born on November 14, 1948 to Nell and Russell Leon Freeman, Sr. in Baird, Texas. He graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in 1967 and went onto graduate from The University of North Texas in 1972 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design.

He started his own Interior Design firm in 1976 and loved helping his clients turn houses into homes. Rusty married Andrea Daniel on March 6, 1982 and they worked side by side for many years. They had 40 years together and could be seen having lunch together almost daily. He was a founding member of the Texas Association for Interior Design and a professional member of the American Society of Interior Designers. He served on the board and is a past President of The George Bush Childhood Home and at the time of his death he was on The Board of Governors of High Sky Children’s Ranch after serving on the Board of the Ranch for many years.

He was known to put all who knew him at ease and almost always had a smile on his face. He took up pottery later in life and loved his continuing education classes at Midland College, where one of his pieces is now in their permanent collection. Reading, playing in his “garden” and spending time with his family were his favorite things to do, but his four grandchildren were the greatest joys of his life.

Rusty is survived by his wife Andrea, son Kevin and wife Ashley, daughter Caroline and husband Sean Spears, son Jordan and wife Haley, grandsons Carter and Charlie Spears and Peyton and Jackson Freeman, Sister Janet and husband Dr. Grover Hubley along with numerous nieces, nephews and other family members.

He is preceded in death by his parents Nell and Leon Freeman.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in his honor be made to High Sky Children’s Ranch, 8613 West County Road 60, Midland, Texas 79707.

A Memorial service will be held Friday, June 24, 2022 at 11:00 in the morning at First Baptist Church of Midland.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences can be made at npwelch.com

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Service
First Baptist Church - Midland
Friday 6/24, 11:00 am
Memorial Service

Russell (Rusty) Leon Freeman, Jr., 73, of Midland passed away on Sunday, June 19, 2022 at home surrounded by his family after a very brief battle with cancer. Rusty was born on November 14, 1948 to Nell and Russell Leon Freeman, Sr. in Baird, Texas. He graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in 1967Continue Reading

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Kaye Horchler left a message on June 27, 2022:
It's a real loss to many of us to know that "Rusty" is gone from Midland...but not from memories. he was one of the very first people that I, and my husband Richard met when we were transferred to Midland by Texaco/Chevron! He was so friendly from the start, and we knew that he would have many friends as time went on. That was a long time ago...but my regard for him remains. Such a sweet personality and such a talent. He married an adored lady and has children who will remember him for a long time. A real bright light in Midland! Kaye Horchler
Sara and Norman Fry left a message on June 24, 2022:
Rusty helped us with our decorating needs at the time our home was burned. We appreciated his cheerful and efficient manner. Like so many in Midland we see his legacy in our home everyday. He was a real joy to know. May the peace of the Lord be with you all and comfort your hearts. Sara and Norman Fry
Mary McDaniel Rogers left a message on June 23, 2022:
I met Rusty way back in the late 70s. He had the best personality and wit! So sad to lose such a great guy. I will be thinking of his Family and hoping their grief mellows into fond memories in due time.
Anonymous left a message on June 23, 2022:
Thinking of your family during this difficult time. Rusty made such an impact on my life and his joy will be greatly missed but never forgotten!
Simple Sorrows was purchased for the family of Russell Freeman by Anonymous. Send Flowers
A tree was also planted in memory of Russell Freeman
The Body Gallery left a message on June 23, 2022:
Condolences to the family in this time of need.
In Paradise was purchased for the family of Russell Freeman by The Body Gallery. Send Flowers
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Fran Billingsley left a message on June 23, 2022:
Rusty could brighten my day just by his friendly, positive greeting. It appeared he enjoyed people as much as decorating. Love and prayers to Andrea & children, Fran Billingsley
Gail Averitt left a message on June 22, 2022:
I am saddened by the news of Rusty's passing. He was such a delightful person & made the stress of building a new home such a joy! He could tell the funniest stories & yet be the one that had your bed put together on moving day. Rest in peace my friend! My prayers for the family.
Patti Haness left a message on June 21, 2022:
Rusty was a pleasure to work with and always kind, courteous and very professional. Enjoyed his storytelling and great sense of humor. My sympathy to his family for the loss of such a fine man. Patti Haness at Kisabeth Furniture Dallas.
Bill and Sara St. Clair left a message on June 21, 2022:
With deepest sympathy,
Hope And Healing was purchased for the family of Russell Freeman by Bill and Sara St. Clair. Send Flowers
A tree was also planted in memory of Russell Freeman
Susie Mercer left a message on June 21, 2022:
Andrea, we are so saddened at the loss of Rusty. It won’t be the same without the both of you in Sunday School. Praying for you and your family and for your health. Sincerest wishes, Larry and Susie Mercer
Jenness Gilles left a message on June 21, 2022:
Andrea and Family, Such a shocking loss of a creative giant. I cherish the time I spent working with you both, and Ellen. So many will also miss him. Blessings, Jenness (& Jody)
Jan Tankersley Boeckel left a message on June 21, 2022:
I am so very sorry. Rusty was a friend since 4th grade and one of my favorites. He was always fun and kind. He will be greatly missed. You and your family are in m thoughts and prayers. Jan Tankersley Boeckel
Megan Manley left a message on June 21, 2022:
Aunt Andrea & Family, we are lifting you up in our prayers as you grieve the loss of your beloved husband, father, & grandfather. Love, The Manleys
Tropical Dish Garden with Fresh Flowers was purchased for the family of Russell Freeman by Megan Manley. Send Flowers
Tom E. Rattan left a message on June 21, 2022:
Rusty was a good friend. I have known Rusty since the 7th grade. We shared many good times at Midland College pottery class. We will miss his wonderful wacky sense of humor.
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Tribute Store left a message on June 20, 2022:
Remembering you and Russell Freeman in our minds and in our hearts.
Fountain Of Harmony was purchased for the family of Russell Freeman by Tribute Store. Send Flowers
Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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