Don Freedman, age 87, of Belton, Texas, passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2026, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of creativity, determination, love, and adventure.

Born on October 1, 1938, in Newark, New Jersey. Don was the son of the late Simon and Mary Freedman. He grew up in Hillside, New Jersey surrounded by the love and guidance of his sister, Harriet, who played an important role in raising him. Even as a young boy, Don’s drive and ingenuity were unmistakable. Whether he was delivering newspapers, shining shoes, or teaching guitar lessons, he approached every opportunity with enthusiasm, confidence, and an entrepreneurial spirit that would remain with him throughout his life.

An artist in the truest sense, Don owned and operated Freedman’s of Nantucket (formerly Expressions of Don Freedman) on Nantucket Island for nearly 47 years. He traveled throughout the world in search of unique materials and worked alongside master craftsmen to bring his artistic visions to life. His artwork was more than a profession—it was an expression of who he was. Don especially treasured the relationships he formed with those who visited his gallery, and he found great joy in knowing that his creations would become meaningful parts of their homes and lives.

Another beautiful chapter began when Don met Jere and welcomed her daughter, Angie, into his heart and family. Don and Jere built an extraordinary life together, traveling the world and sharing countless adventures side by side. They created beautiful homes designed by Don in Florida; Telluride, Colorado; Nantucket, Massachusetts; Kansas; and Texas. Wherever they lived or traveled, they filled their lives with creativity, laughter, discovery, and love.

Don will be remembered for his brilliant creativity, sharp business instincts, fierce work ethic, undeniable charisma, and his remarkable ability to turn ideas into something beautiful. He lived boldly, dreamed fearlessly, and left an enduring impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Don is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Jere; his children, Jodi Freedman and her partner, Renee Lindquist, and Lesley Jamieson and her husband, Alex; and Jere’s daughter, Angie Kinateder and her husband, Lee. He was the proud grandfather of Madeline and Charlotte, daughters of Lesley, and Mariah, Kaitlyn, and Ashley, daughters of Angie. Don is also survived by his beloved sister, Harriet, and his dear nephews, Randy, David, and Douglass.

Although Don’s absence will be deeply felt, his spirit will live on through the family he loved, the lives he touched, the businesses he built, and the beautiful works of art he leaves behind. May his memory forever be a blessing.

A service honoring and celebrating Don’s remarkable life will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at Crotty Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Belton followed by procession to his final resting place at Killeen Memorial Park Cemetery in Killeen.