Dewey Wendell Freeman, lovingly known as Wendell, was born on June 29, 1940 in Marlow, Oklahoma, to Nelson Freeman and Sybil Nelson Freeman. He passed away peacefully on December 31, 2024, surrounded by his beloved family.
Wendell grew up in Marlow, Oklahoma, where he developed his lifelong passion for sports and community service. He graduated from Happy High School in Happy, Texas, where his talent for basketball first shone.
Wendell continued his education at Sayre Junior College in Sayre, Oklahoma, and later earned his Bachelor of Science degree from West Texas State University in Canyon, Texas.
Wendell’s professional life was marked by dedication and entrepreneurial spirit as the owner of Perryton Furniture Company in Perryton, Texas.
Beyond his career, he was deeply involved in his community, serving on the Perryton City Council and Perryton School Board, where he held the position of President.
Wendell was also an active member of the Lions Club, the Kiwanis Club, earning Workhorse of the Year, YMCA of Perryton Board of Directors, and Big Brothers Big Sisters, embodying a spirit of service that touched countless lives.
A proud member of the Presbyterian Church, Wendell’s faith was central to his life. He was an integral part of the Trinity Presbyterian Church, always eager to lend a helping hand and support his church community.
Wendell’s love of sports extended far beyond his own time on the court. After playing basketball in high school and college, he became a referee for nearly two decades.
His greatest joy came from watching his children and grandchildren excel in sports. Wendell coached his children in baseball and softball, announced Perryton High School football and basketball games on the radio, and cherished the opportunity to attend the World Series with Mike Hargrove and the Cleveland Indians.
An avid golfer, Wendell could often be found on the golf course after work, enjoying the camaraderie and competition. His love for the game continued until he relocated to Midlothian in 2022.
Wendell also enjoyed cheering for the St. Louis Cardinals and Dallas Cowboys, and he was honored as Perryton Ranger Fan of the Year.
Wendell’s dedication to his community and family earned him recognition as Citizen of the Year, a testament to his tireless contributions and loving spirit. Above all, he cherished time with his family, creating countless memories filled with laughter and love.
Wendell was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 60 years, Betty Anne McCelvey Freeman; his parents, Nelson and Sybil Freeman; his brothers, Wesley Freeman, Dudley Freeman and Nicky Don Freeman; his sister, Reba Cowan; and his dear friend, Charles Mac Lovett, and brotherin- law Bob McCelvey.
He is survived by his son, Jeff Freeman; daughter, Christi Bryan and sonin- law Mike Bryan; grandchildren Brad Bryan (Jenny), Blake Bryan (Christina), Katy Stanfield, Micalla Garcia and Kylie Bryan; great-grandchildren, Madison Bryan, Eden Bryan, Cassie Capps, Liv Bryan, Claire Bryan, Brenna Bryan and Presley Stanfield; and great-greatgrandson, Canyon Curtis. He also leaves behind his sisters, Marty Ogburn and Berdie Duerson; brother, Stanley Freeman; and numerous nieces and nephews who will forever cherish his memory.
Wendell’s life was a testament to the power of kindness, perseverance, and faith. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.