Norma Rae Free, lovingly known as “Meme” by her family, passed away peacefully at her home on May 5, 2025, at the age of 94.
Born April 2, 1931, in Natchitoches, Louisiana, to Otho John and Iona Bell Jennings Middleton, she was raised in Marthaville, Louisiana, with a strong foundation of faith, family, and hard work values that shaped every part of her life.
Norma married the love of her life, William Arlton “Tim” Free, and together they shared over 55 years of marriage. After settling in Orange, Texas, she dedicated her life to creating a warm, welcoming home while working in both retail and interior design. She was a longtime member of McDonald Memorial Baptist Church in West Orange, where her faith remained a steady guide.
Meme had a gentle soul, a creative spirit, and a deep devotion to her family. She enjoyed painting delicate floral designs on China, arranging flowers, gardening, shopping, and cooking especially the holiday meals that brought everyone together. Her lemon pound cakes were legendary, always made with love for her husband, who never ended a day without something sweet.
She loved supporting her children and grandchildren at sporting events and found joy in every moment spent with family. Her quiet strength, grace, and ability to turn a house into a home touched the lives of everyone around her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Tim Free; daughter, Kim Leonard; brother, T. B. Middleton; and sisters, Moise Branson and Georgie Buss.
She is survived by her son, Bill Free and wife Susan; daughter, Gail Boatman-Eads; and grandchildren: Kyle Free and wife Amanda, Kelly Free and wife Tracie, Chad Boatman, Lance Eads, Krystal Leonard, and Brittany Moore and husband Robert. She also leaves behind great-grandchildren, Jarod Free and wife Melody, Ryan Free, Landon Eads, Cameron Eads, Tagen Eads, Bryleigh Moore, and Brodye Moore. She was joyfully awaiting her first great-great-grandchild, due in June.
Meme’s life was filled with love, laughter, and creativity. Her legacy lives on in the hearts and homes of all who knew her.
Officiating the service will be Pastor Tommy Anthony of McDonald Memorial Baptist Church and Roy McDonald, former Mayor of West Orange and longtime family friend.
Serving as Pallbearers: Kyle Free, Chad Boatman, Lance Eads, Landon Eads, Brodye Moore and Cameron Eads.
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