Kate P. Freeman

Mrs. Elaine Kate Padgett Freeman, 80, resident of Howard Street in Varnville, SC passed away at her residence Wednesday, September 18, 2024, after an extended illness.

Born September 13, 1944 in Walterboro, SC, Mrs. Freeman was the daughter of the late Sam D. Padgett and Annie Rita Donehue Padgett. She was a graduate of Wade Hampton High School and had a long career with the United States Postal Service, retiring as the Postmaster of Varnville. A familiar face in her community, Mrs. Freeman and her husband also owned and operated Freeman's Awards and Gifts in Varnville for many years.

She was a member of Hampton United Methodist Church, the Magnolia Garden Club, enjoyed bird watching, floral arranging, painting, sewing, and doing arts and crafts - especially with her grandchildren.

Surviving are her children: Sondra Freeman Schwerin (Michael) of Charleston, SC, William "Bill" Larry Freeman, Jr. (Nancy) of Jesup, GA, Carla Freeman DuBose (Jay) of Thomasville, GA, and Christina Freeman Smith (Brian) of Lexington, SC.

Mrs. Freeman was lovingly referred to as "Kaka" by her grandchildren: Jessica DuBose Siemen (Sean), William "Billy" Freeman (Jamie), Emma Freeman Williams (Jake), Alexandra Schwerin, Amelia DuBose, Kendall Smith, Anna Schwerin, and Ella Smith.

Mrs. Freeman is also survived by a very devoted and loving brother, Perry Padgett (Jean) of Varnville.

Mrs. Freeman was predeceased by her high school sweetheart and husband, William "Larry" Freeman, Sr.

Funeral Services will be 11:00 am Saturday, September 21, 2024 in the Hampton United Methodist Church conducted by Rev. Jack Hutto and Rev. Dr. Tommy Kelly.  Burial will follow in the Varnville Cemetery.

A visitation will be held beginning at 10:00 am lasting until the hour of service in the church sanctuary.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Kate's neighbors, extended family, and special friends for their support, meals, gifts, and most importantly their visits. An extra special thanks goes to Ms. Linda Smith and Ms. Retha Mae McQuire for their support, guidance, and outstanding care of Kaka.

The family suggests that those who wish may send memorials to the Hampton United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 45, Hampton, SC 29924.

Peeples-Rhoden Funeral Home is assisting the Freeman family during this time.