Vance Freeman
Vance Lee Freeman, 63, of East Brainerd, died on Sunday, June 25, 2017, in a local hospice care center.
A native of Gulfport, Ms., Vance began his career as a respiratory therapist after obtaining his Bachelors of Science degree from Georgia State. He taught respiratory care at Hinds Community College and was assistant director of Respiratory Care at Baptist Medical Center in Jackson, Ms.
In 1987 Vance became director of Respiratory Services at Memorial Hospital in Chattanooga. His passion for learning and desire to serve others led him to receive his master’s in Business from Kennesaw State.
His career advanced in hospital administration that allowed him to work with multiple departments, He was instrumental in developing the Respiratory Care Department at Siskin Hospital for Rehabilitation.
Vance was recognized multiple states for his contributions to professional organizations.
He retired in 2012 from Memorial Hospital as director of Professional Services. For many years he served on the board of directors of Memorial Credit Union including several terms as chairman.
He was a member of Christ United Methodist Church.
Vance was an avid fisherman, outdoorsman, enjoyed working in his yard and loved to read.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lonnie and Betty Jean Freeman and sister, Peggy Favre.
Survivors are his wife of 31 years, Lori Byars Freeman; sister, Nancy Freeman, Long Beach, Ms.; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Loray and Ann Byars, Summerville, Ga.; several nieces, nephews and in laws.
Services will be held Tuesday at 6 p.m. in the chapel with Reverend David Hall officiating. Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. on Wednesday at Summerville City Cemetery.
Contributions may be made to Hospice of Chattanooga 4411 Oakwood Drive, Chattanooga, TN 37416.
Visit www.heritagechattanooga.,com to share condolences to the family and view the memorial tribute.
The family will receive friends Tuesday from 4-6 PM at Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 E. Brainerd Road.