Frances Redmond Freeborn

Frances Redmond Freeborn, 94, died peacefully at her home on May 17, 2024. She was born in Asheville, North Carolina, on July 27, 1929, to Leo Anthony and Ruth Smith Redmond. Frances is survived by her brother, Darrell B. Redmond, and her sister, Margaret Schiffman. She leaves behind her children, Rob (Joan), David (Claudia), Clay (Ardis), and Frankie (Skip), as well as 14 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren who affectionately called her "Grandmama." 

She was preceded in death by her brothers Leo Anthony, Lawrence Edward, and Michael Vincent. 

Frances attended St. Genevieve-of-the- Pines in Asheville, NC, and Dunbarton College of the Holy Cross in Washington, D.C., where she was active in leadership and sports. She became the top and first female salesperson for Wards TV in Richmond, Virginia, which later became Circuit City. She later continued her successful career in sales with Stinnette/ R&R Uniforms in Asheville where she became their top salesperson until she retired in 1993. An avid UNC Tarheels basketball fan, Frances loved working in her yard and playing bridge. Above all, she cherished spending time with her family and friends. She was an amazingly strong mother who single-handedly raised her four children. Known for her incredibly positive attitude and giving spirit, she was a selfless caregiver to family and friends in need. Her devout Roman Catholic faith guided her life, and she regularly volunteered and attended Mass at St. Eugene’s Catholic Church. 

Frances was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at the age of 80 and lived for 14 more years due to the exceptional care she received at home. This care was managed by her four devoted children and provided by a team of compassionate caregivers, allowing her to pass away peacefully in her own bed. A Liturgy of the Word funeral will be held at St. Eugene Catholic Church in Asheville on July 26, 2024, at 2:00 p.m., followed by an interment at Lewis Memorial Park. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Four Seasons Hospice, 571 South Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731, or to St Eugene Catholic Church, 72 Culvern St. Asheville, NC 28804.

The care of Mrs. Freeborn has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Candler.