Shirley Arlene “Shirlynn” Freeman

Shirley Arlene “Shirlynn” Freeman, a Smith River, Calif., resident, transitioned from this earth June 10, 2009, following a short and unexpected battle with cancer. She was 74.

A private family service was held June 13.

Shirlynn was born Jan. 5, 1935, in Riverside, Calif., the only daughter of Harry R. and Paulyne C. Spencer. She was raised in Riverside County, and graduated from Corona High School. 

Following high school, she earned an Associate of Arts degree from Riverside Junior College.

On Feb. 13, 1954, she married Richard E. Freeman, her  sweetheart  since junior high school. Following the wedding in Las Vegas, the couple made their home in Southern California before settling in Del Norte County in 1989.

Shirlynn was a dedicated homemaker and mother.  When her children were young, she was active in all of their activities, and spent many hours leading Cub Scouts, attending sporting events and “chauffeuring” kids in her VW bus.

She had a lifelong interest in horticulture, was a master gardener and loved growing flowers. She supported the Eureka, Calif., Garden Club, and generously volunteered her time there. She also enjoyed antiquing.

Shirlynn was a charter member of the Unity Church in Brookings. She was a likable person, and had a generous and open spirit, finding a place in her heart for anyone and everyone she met.

She is survived by her husband Richard of Smith River; son and daughter-in-law Richard and Janel Freeman of Visalia, Calif.; daughter and son-in-law Ruth and Tim Jablonski of Boise, Idaho; son Glenn Freeman of Smith River; daughter Paulyne Freeman of Salt Lake City; daughter and son-in-law Merry and Ron Blaski of Atascadero, Calif.; seven grandchildren – Brian, Ronnie, Andy, Tristan, Jenny, Johnny and Sonya.

Remembrances may be made in her name to the American Cancer Society, 1301 Northcrest Dr., Crescent City, CA  95531.

Submitted by Redwood Memorial Care

of Crescent City