Julius Ray Freeman

Julius Ray Freeman, affectionately known within his social circles as “Wimpy,” was a 73 year old long time resident of Jersey City. Julius entered into eternal rest on March 12, 2018.

Julius was born on July 13, 1944 in Beaufort South Carolina to the late Richard Julius Freeman and the late Lucielle Freeman. He attended St. Helena Elementary and High School, where he graduated in 1965. Upon graduating High School, Julius pursued a career in Jersey City, where he met his wife, Barbara Hadden. They wed April 22, 1967 and from that Union, they had five children; one son, Eric and four daughters, Yolanda, Stacey, Darlene and Tamika. Julius worked as a truck driver for Super Tire Engineering and Road Link from which he retired. Julius spent his retired years in service to the Lord at Mount Olive Baptist Church.

Julius leaves to cherish his loving wife, Barbara J. Freeman, his son Eric J. Freeman (Eva), his daughter Yolanda Timberlake (Michael), his daughter Stacey McClary (Jerome), daughters Darlene Freeman and Tamika Freeman. He is also survived by 25 grandchildren and great grandchildren, as well as his siblings Theodore Freeman, Roselee Tyson and Myrtle Freeman. Julius is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-law and friends .

He is preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Lucille, his eldest granddaughter Tenesha, and his older brothers Willie and Herbert.

Julius (Wimpy) was a man of character. He was a diligent worker who’s no holds barred demeanor garnered noted success in the trucking industry. Peterbilt with a cat motor was his preferred line of tractor trailers as no other line would do. His strong presentation demonstrated his commitment to structure – he lived by the mantra of work first, play later. Aside from driving his Peterbilt trucks, Ray loved sports, especially fishing, golfing and baseball. Some of his favorite tv shows included Gun Smoke, Bonanza and Judge Judy. He kept a song in his heart because he like to whistle. Julius lived a full 73 years and fought through health challenges since 2011. No matter the prognosis from his trips to the hospital, he came out each time strong and ready to take on life. Ray was a loving family man, affectionately preparing special meals at once at the constant requests of his children and grandchildren. One old school favorite, lima beans and smoked neck bones, kept him busy in the kitchen for his tribe. He thoroughly enjoyed family time with all of his family members, sharing stories and expressing love and affection to all he encountered. Julius would empty his pockets to grant his children their favorite things, often glad to do so for the ones he loved. He spent most of his time with his wife and great grandson, Jayvion, who he nicknamed “Echy,” after a loving childhood friend. From the beginning, in between and at the end of his life, his wife Barbara remained his strength and support through every challenge he faced.  Julius will be remembered by his jovial personality, his captivating smile and his too cool for school stride. Julius was one of a kind and his spirit lives on in his children and grandchildren.

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