Willis Lee Freeman, 81, passed away on Saturday, May 2, 2026 in Mena, Arkansas surrounded by his family. Willis was born on September 9, 1944 in Wagoner, Oklahoma to Frank L. and Chloreen (Stevens) Freeman.

Willis was a crop farmer by trade; he took pride in his gardens, trained horses, and raised rabbits, which his grandkids really enjoyed. He was an avid outdoorsman; Willis loved to hunt with his beagles, fishing - especially catfishing, and cookouts with his family and friends. His highest honor was being called Papa, he loved spending time and making memories with his grandkids. In his later years, his face would light up as he talked about memories and accomplishments of his grandkids.

He is survived by:

One daughter:

Tammy Welch of Muskogee, Oklahoma

Two sons:

Rodney Freeman of Grove, Oklahoma

Kevin Freeman and wife Veronica of Mena, Arkansas

His grandchildren:

Susan Marquette and Stephanie Bolding both of Haskell, Oklahoma

Heather Lackey, Andrea Bosch, and Jordan Powell all of Mena, Arkansas

10 great-grandchildren

Two sisters:

Gloria Stamper of Locust Grove, Oklahoma

Kathern Davis of the Haw Creek Community

One brother:

Houston Freeman of Claremore, Oklahoma

Numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and a host of many friends

Willis was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Chloreen Freeman; his wife, Loretta (Johnson) Freeman; a grandson, Charles "Bubba" Welch, Jr.; one brother, Paul Freeman; and one sister, Vina Fowler; and a son-in-law, Charles Welch.

Graveside service will be 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at the Page Cemetery in Page, Oklahoma.  Burial will follow under the direction and care of Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home of Heavener, Oklahoma.

Pallbearers will be: His Family

Viewing will be from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., Tuesday at the funeral home .