Barbara Lambert Freeman

Barbara Lambert Freeman of Bat Cave, NC, joined her loved ones in Heaven on January 17th, 2022. She was born June 12th, 1932, in Norfolk, VA, to Thomas “Skeech” Lambert and Louise Jones Lambert. Barbara was introduced to Bat Cave as a teenager when she began working in her grandfather’s cottages- the “Dolly and Bobbie Haven Cottages”. Her mother gave her a surprise “16th” birthday party where she met and later married Plenny Jay Freeman, Jr. They wed November 29th, 1950 and shared 56 years together before his passing in 2007. 

Barbara was a faithful member of The Church of the Transfiguration, and it always held a special place in her heart. Barbara and Jay were the first couple to be married in the Church of the Transfiguration in its current location. The original church was destroyed by fire, and they were blessed to build their home where the original church once stood.

Barbara, affectionately known as “Grannie,” was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She loved birthdays and holidays, especially Christmas, and made them so special for her family. She was a devoted caregiver to her husband (Pappy) when his health started declining, a wonderful example to her family of what love is truly all about. (Proverbs 31:28)

She was employed by CP Claire, Chimney Rock Park, and after retirement, worked in the Chimney Sweeps Gift Shop. She enjoyed helping with the Bat Cave Volunteer Fire Department Community Suppers and loved working in her flowers and yard.

Left to cherish her memory are sons, Plenny Jay Freeman, III “Lenny” (Ginger), and Thomas Mitchell Freeman “Mitch” (Meredith). Grandchildren, Plenny Jay Freeman IV, (Missy), Heather Freeman McDaniel, (Johnny), Michelle Freeman Okpych, (Jimmy), and Brannon Mitchell Freeman, (Carmen). Great-grandchildren, Megan and Morgyn McDaniel, Mae and Allison Freeman, Powell, Marilla, and Aubrie Okpych, and Alton and Hadley Freeman.

The family wishes to sincerely thank Ms. Gladys Logan, Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, and especially the staff of Fair Haven Home in Bostic, NC, for the wonderful care she received during her years there. We cannot thank you enough for the love, care, and compassion you showed to Grannie. 

A graveside service will be held Friday, January 21, 2022, at 2:00 pm at the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration, 106 Saylor Lane, Bat Cave, NC 28710, with Father Mickey Mugan officiating. The family will be at the home of Johnny and Heather McDaniel.

Flowers are welcomed, or donations may be made to Bat Cave Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 11, Bat Cave, NC 28710 or to Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach-Food for Kids Program, PO Box 634, Lake Lure, NC 28746. McMahan's Funeral Home & Cremation Services in charge of arrangements.

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