On July 24, 111 people gathered at the Norwood School Multi-Purpose Room to celebrate Helen Freeman’s 88th birthday.
Thirteen of Helen’s 15 children were there with their spouses as well as 26 grandchildren and their spouses and 33 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson.
Also sharing in the celebration was Helen’s sister, Irene, from Texas with five members of her family as well as a great-nephew, Eddie King and wife, Teresa, of Illinois, and a special family friend, Rita Fancher, of Ava.
The day started with a potluck lunch of burgers, hotdogs, casseroles, salads, vegetables, desserts and birthday cake. Lots of pictures were taken as well as much visiting and playing. Cousins met for the first time.
Helen enjoyed her special day and was overwhelmed at the number of family members that were able to make it. There were over 70 immediate family members that were unable to attend. Helen’s children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren, including spouses now totals over 170. There are several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren on the way.
Helen’s children that attended are Nick and Dorothy Freeman of Illinois, Carla Freeman of Tennessee, Paula Allen of Hartville, Paul and Glenna Freeman of Oldfield, Doug and Judy Freeman of Oklahoma, Valerie and Joe Long of Mansfield, Charlene and Scott Foster of Tennessee, Sam and Joan Freeman of Kansas, Merry Lou and Dan DeBonis of California, Kent Freeman of Mansfield, Mark Freeman of Oldfield, Robyn and Aaron Jarrett of Norwood and Stephanie and Brian Connell of Norwood.
Those unable to attend were Wes and Karen Freeman of Texas and Tomma Seitzinger of Colorado.
Helen’s grandson and wife, Aaron and Brandi Jarrett, of Mountain Grove, were hosts of the big event. Aaron planned this special day for his grandmother for over a year and did a remarkable job of getting everyone together.
