Orville "Gene" E. Freeman

Orville E. “Gene” Freeman, age 76, of Martinsville, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Sunday afternoon, June 8, 2025, at Eskenazi Hospital in Indianapolis.

Gene was born June 16, 1948 in Bloomington, to his parents the late Paul and Ines (Ratliff) Freeman. He married the love of his life, Sheila K. Lehr on January 29, 1972 and spent 53 devoted years together before her passing in April 2025.

Gene dedicated much of his life to his work, starting as a truck driver for RH Marlin, where he transported heavy equipment across the country. Later, he took on the role of a newspaper deliveryman for several local papers, always ensuring that the community stayed informed. Known for his strong work ethic, Gene also cherished his free time, which he spent fishing, traveling, and watching WWE wrestling. He will be remembered for his ability to fix things and his warm and welcoming spirit, never meeting a stranger and made friends wherever he went. Gene’s life was a testament to love, hard work, and the joy of simple pleasures and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In addition to his beloved wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Paul Wayne Freeman.

He will be missed by his children, Melody (Bryce) Urban of Bowling Green, Kentucky and Gary (Melissa) Freeman of Coverdale. He was a proud grandfather to Samuel (Katelyn) Freeman, Samantha (Steven) Deckard, Dylan Freeman, Miranda (Eric) McComb, and Noah (Olivia) Urban. Gene is also survived by his sister, Barbara Lou Freeman.

A Celebration of Gene’s Life will be held at a later date. Cremation services have been entrusted to Meredith-Clark Funeral Home Cremation & Personalization Center in Morgantown.

Condolences may be sent to the family at meredith-clark.com.

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