Marie Hare Freeling

Marie Hare Freeling, just three months shy of her 90th birthday, lost her battle with breast cancer on May 23, 2012. A woman of great strength, Marie, faced her illness with determination and courage. Her unflappable attitude served as an inspiration to those around her. Marie transplanted to Little Rock from Monterey, California with her new husband, Dick Freeling in June of 1944. Marie met Dick while volunteering at the hospital where he was recovering from a war injury. The two raised their family in Little Rock where they enjoyed a marriage that lasted 63 years. Dick preceded Marie in death in October of 2008. Marie was an active community volunteer with many organizations including the Shadowlawn Garden Club. She was a sustaining member of the Twentieth Century Club serving the club in many different capacities. In 1998 she was named the club's outstanding sustainer. Marie was a member of Saint Andrews Church. Marie loved parties big and small whether as an attendee or the hostess. She loved adventure. She was passionate about clothes. The last year her illness presented many obstacles to maintaining her fashionable appearance. Marie responded by making whatever necessary adjustments it took for her to continue her great look. Marie loved a bargain. She would drive anywhere at any time to score a great buy. She loved to play Mahjong. Her zest for life made her seem ageless. She remained beautiful until the end of her life. Marie is survived by her children; Susan Freeling Carr of Washington, DC and Rick Freeling and his wife, Barbara, of Little Rock. Her grandchildren who fondly called Marie, Honey, are Becka and Brian Webb of Little Rock, Tyrrell and Louis Januzzi of Ridgewood, New Jersey and Taylor and Jami Carr of Severna Park, Maryland. Marie's great-grandchildren include: Guy Webb, Quinn and Ellison Januzzi, and Duffy and Charlotte Marie Carr. Marie leaves behind innumerable friends and her Tree Tops family. The Freeling family would like to thank Barbara Ellis, Dr. Joe Beck and his staff, Dr. John Jones, and the remarkable staff at Tree Tops Condominiums. Memorials may be made to Hope Away from Home, 4011 Maryland Avenue, Little Rock, Ark. 72204. A visitation will be held at Ruebel Funeral Home, 6313 W. Markham St. on Thursday, May 31, 2012 from 5 to 7 p.m. A celebration of Marie's life will be held at Ruebel Funeral Home on Friday, June 1, 2012 at 11 a.m., officated by Rev. Stephen Kidd. www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.