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Catherine Deloris Freeman passed away peacefully at home in Virginia Beach, VA on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. Catherine was born on May 10, 1937 in Courtland, VA to the late Thomas and Alice Boykins.
She was preceded in death by her husband, James Thomas Freeman; parents, Thomas & Alice Boykins; brother, Thomas “Jack” Boykins Jr.; sisters, Rosa Lee Turner, Mable Boykins; and granddaughter, KeShondra Freeman.
When Catherine was young, she took great care of her younger siblings, making sure they were safe. She moved to Virginia Beach to find employment at age 19 and later met her husband, James Freeman. During Catherine’s long standing career, she worked with families in their home. She also worked as a cafeteria and a building service worker for Virginia Beach Public Schools where she retired after 23 years.
Catherine’s greatest joys were serving the Lord, attending Rehoboth Baptist Church, spending time with family, gardening, and working on word search puzzles. Catherine loved cooking and hosting holiday gatherings for family and close friends. She also loved participating in church activities such as serving on the Deaconess Board and singing in the choir. Along with her eye for fashion, she also loved a fabulous matching hat.
Catherine departs to treasure her priceless memories, three sons: Michael (Sherri), James, Malcolm (LaShann); one daughter, Lynne; five grandchildren: Kandee, Sheldon, Ashlee, Kyle, and Keirra; great grandchildren: Shae, Amani, Amira, Bryson, Alani, Aria, and Cali; two brothers: James Boykins and Johnnie Boykins (Jane); two sisters Luvenia Boykins, Alice Boykins (George); and a host of cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, family members, and friends.