Obituary of Leon Freeman

Leon “Duke” Freeman, Sr. December 9, 1948 – February 16, 2025 Leon Freeman, Sr. never left the house unless he was clean. And not just presentable —CLEAN. Whether it was a crisp suit and tie for work, perfectly pressed slacks for a casual outing, or even just a coordinated Adidas track set, Leon believed looking put together was a sign of self-respect. That remained his philosophy through February 16, 2025, when at the age of 76, Leon passed from this life. But his sharp style was a small piece of who he was. Leon had the charm of a leading man, the wit of a comedian, and a heart rooted in service. Whether he was presiding over business matters at Camden High School and the Camden Board of Education, fixing a lock as a licensed locksmith, or spinning records in his Umija DJ days, Leon did everything with humility - and just the slightest bit of flair. Early Life and Education Leon was born on December 9, 1948, in Millers Tavern, Virginia, but was raised and educated in Camden, New Jersey. Leon was affectionately known as "Duke"—a nickname bestowed by his older brother Leroy and his friends, which took permanent hold when Gene Chandler’s Duke of Earl topped the music charts in the 1960s. From an early age, his leadership qualities were evident. His first-grade teacher, the late Riletta Cream, once described him as “a leader who was always respectful, well-dressed in his bowtie, and smart.” Leon attended Camden City Schools and graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1967, where he excelled both academically and athletically. A proud Tiger, he played basketball and football and was later inducted into Woodrow Wilson High School’s Hall of Fame. He continued his education at Trenton State College, now The College of New Jersey, majoring in Business Education and Distributive Studies. During his college years, he became one of five founders of the Iota Gamma Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., at the College. Career in Education Leon began his teaching career in the Trenton Public Schools but soon fulfilled his dream of returning to Camden as an educator. He was hired as a business teacher at Camden High School. He served as a distributive education coordinator, class advisor, and even sports announcer. So great was his impact that the Senior Class of 1981 dedicated their yearbook to him in honor of his commitment, leadership, and guidance. He was also recognized multiple times as one of the best-dressed teachers—a distinction he wore with pride. His expertise in business and education caught the attention of the Camden Board of Education, and in 1981, he was appointed Assistant Board Secretary for Financial Services. By 1991, he was promoted to School Business Administrator/Board Secretary, where he played a key role in shaping Camden’s educational landscape. Under his leadership, helped secure funding to build Dr. Brimm Medical Arts High School. Family and Personal Life On July 22, 1978, Leon married the love of his life, Angela Alfreda King, and together they built a family rooted in love and faith. He was the father of Dawn Chatman, Leon Freeman Jr., and Leayne (Freeman) Dempsey, and “Pop-Pop” to Lowell Dempsey III and Langston Duke Dempsey. A man of deep faith, Leon was a devoted member of Asbury Community Church in Woodlynne, New Jersey, where he served as a lay pastor, Bible study teacher, worship leader, and co-chair of the married couples’ ministry alongside Angela. He made it his mission to share his faith with everyone he met, often inviting strangers to breakfast at McDonald's, where he would buy them a meal in exchange for a conversation about Jesus Christ. His signature question, “Do you know the man?” was his way of introducing others to his unwavering belief. A Legacy of Leadership and Service Leon was actively involved in several professional and civic organizations, including the National Association of School Business Officials, the New Jersey Association of School Business Officials, and the Camden Rotary. In 1988, he was recognized in Who’s Who Among Young American Professionals for his contributions to education and leadership. Leon’s legacy will live on through his family, the students he mentored, and the many lives he touched. If Leon were here today, he’d likely lean in with his signature smile and ask you one last time: “Do you know the man?” A celebration of life service will be held at Asbury Community Church on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at 11am, with a viewing preceding the service. Cherished Loved Ones Leon leaves to cherish his memory and live his legacy: wife: Angela (Prutney); his children: Dawn, Leon and Leayne (husband: Lowell II; grandsons: Lowell III, Langston Duke); siblings: Leroy (wife: Bernadette), Mary, Earl (wife: Joyce), and Arnold. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.