Garland Edward Free

Garland Edward Free, age 94 of Cleveland, passed away Saturday, June 16, 2012 at his residence. Mr. Free was born July 9, 1917 in Habersham County to the late Humphrey and Lucy Pettit Free. He was a Veteran of United States Air Force and he was the oldest gospel music fan as stated by Danny O’Day. Mr. Free attended New Bridge Baptist Church faithfully and was preceded in death by his wife, Leona Free, step-sons, Bob Nolan, Bill Nolan and Lee Nolan. Survivors include his son and daughter-in-law, Clyde and Claudine Free, Cleveland; daughters, Virginia Gosnell, Athens; Charlotte Shook, Washington; 10 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren and 9 great-great grandchildren; several step grandchildren and step great grandchildren also survive. Funeral services are scheduled for 2:00 PM Tuesday, June 19, 2012 at New Bridge Baptist Church. The Rev. Darin Cain, the Rev. W.A. Jenkins and the Rev. Phillip Robinson will officiate. Interment will follow in the Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6-8 PM Monday at the funeral home. Online condolences can be made to the family at barrettfh.com Barrett Funeral Home, Cleveland.