Kelly Jo Freeman

Born in Marquette on January 23, 1963, Kelly was the daughter of Terry and Judith (Patient) Freeman. She was raised in Harvey and graduated from Marquette Senior High School with the Class of 1981.

Following high school, Kelly began her working career and held many jobs throughout the years, many of them centered around caring for others. She worked as an in-home aide assisting elderly individuals in their homes and later worked as a cook for Norlite Nursing Center and the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans. She remained at Jacobetti until her retirement. Kelly was affectionately known as “Big Red” because of her bright fire-red hair.

Kelly had a fun-loving spirit and a heart full of love for the people and animals in her life. She enjoyed playing card games, loved horses, adored her cats, and had a special fondness for crows. She especially loved camping trips to Perkins Park and was truly a kid at heart. Kelly was unique, super friendly, and deeply devoted to her family. When she loved, she loved deeply.

She is survived by her mother, Judith Freeman; sister, Leanne Freeman of Marquette; two brothers, Tim Freeman and Terry (Betty) Freeman Jr., all of Marquette; nieces and nephews, Chris Freeman, Amber (Chris) Heaton, Jamie Freeman, Jason Freeman, and special niece, Darcey (Chris) Freeman-Lucas; and great-nieces and nephews, Bowden and Harper Lucas, and Everly and London Heaton.

Kelly was preceded in death by her father, Terry Freeman; and her brother, Tracy Freeman.

Funeral services for Kelly will take place on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at the Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m., with funeral services beginning at 1:00 p.m. Pastor Kevin Taylor will officiate. A reception will follow in the funeral home reception room.

The Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com