Jackie M. Free

Jackie M. Free, born June 6, 1934, passed away peacefully in his sleep and entered into his heavenly kingdom on Sunday, March 27, 2016 at Wellmont Holston Valley Medical Center. "I have fought the good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." (2 Timothy 4:7)

Jackie was born in Kingsport, TN where he spent his entire life. He enjoyed working outside and farming. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend. Jackie retired from Eastman Chemical Company in 1993 after 39 ½ years of service.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James P. Free and Josephine Gibson Free; brothers, Wallace Free, Donald Free, and Hugh Free; and sisters, Patsy Rosenbalm, Betty Jo Hilton, and Peggy Cole.

Jackie is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Arlena Davis Free; sons, Gary Free and wife, Debbie, and Larry Free; daughters, Becky Steele Blaney and husband, Michael, Jeri Thurman, and Sheri Hensley; 12 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and sister, Carolyn Richards.

A special thank you to the nursing staff of Wellmont A-600 for taking special care of Jackie during his last days.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 5-7:00 pm at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home, Kingsport. The funeral service will follow at 7:00 pm with Rev. Jared Wood officiating. Burial will be at 10am Wednesday at East Tennessee Cemetery.

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