Deborah Jean Freeman

DEBORAH JEAN FREEMAN, affectionately known as Debbie, D-Boogie, and Buela, was the firstborn child of the late Thelma Regina (née Johnson) and Clarence Leon Freeman, Sr. She entered the world on Friday, January 31, 1947—an uncharacteristically warm day in Baltimore, Maryland. With temperatures reaching a record high of 79 degrees, it was clear from the very beginning that Deborah was destined to stand out, earning her place as the original “hot girl.” Debbie was a curious child and inquisitive, as well. She enjoyed learning about Jesus at Ebenezer Baptist Church, where she was baptized and frequented services. She later regularly attended St. Ann’s Catholic Church in adulthood. A proud Dunbar High School graduate in 1965, Debbie carried her love of learning to Morgan State College, where she made the Dean’s List, joined the Elementary Education Club, and became a devoted member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She earned the title “Miss Pistol,” a nod to her sharp tongue, fearless opinions, and undeniable presence—traits she wore proudly and often delivered with humor and flair. She later earned her master’s degree in special education from Coppin State College, becoming a first-generation college graduate and a lifelong advocate for education. In 1970, Debbie began a 36-year career with Baltimore City Public Schools, answering her true calling. Known to her students as “Ms. Freeman,” she created classrooms filled with color, creativity, and high expectations. She believed every child could learn—and made sure they knew it too. She was famous for staying up late perfecting lesson plans and bulletin boards, once even getting locked inside the school because she refused to leave “until it was just right.” Her dedication was recognized when she earned Teacher of the Year during her time at Madison Square Elementary School. Her students laughed, learned, and flourished under her care, many reaching out years later to thank her for the foundation she gave them. Early in 1973, Deborah started dating James Hurt, Sr., better known as “Mike.” After a brief six-month courtship, the two married in October. This union was blessed with three beautiful children, Me-Me, Jay R and Ty-Ty. Though the marriage ended in divorce, they remained friends and co-parents. Outside the classroom, Debbie was vivacious, loving, and full of personality. She enjoyed laughter, lively conversations, and keeping those around her on their toes. Firm but fair, she gave advice freely—sometimes whether you asked for it or not—and loved fiercely and unapologetically. Debbie was a true fashionista her entire life taking great pride in her appearance, exuding style, confidence and elegance. She was a true trendsetter wearing her penciled in eyebrows, side bun and baby hair since the 1970’s well before today’s fad. Debbie was always a vibe, bringing lots of fun and joy everywhere she went. People loved being in her presence and enjoyed her company. She could often be found playing cards with family, thrifting or eating crabs. Some of her favorite sayings were, “Put God first!” and “Don’t take no wooden nickels.” She encouraged her children to have high standards and aspire to get the finer things in life with her mantra of the five M’s- Money, Mansion, Marquise (diamond), Minks and Mercedes. (She was dubbed, “Miss Mercedes” by her younger brother, Cisco.) She reiterated that nothing was impossible when you made God your first choice. Debbie was a fierce protector of her family who didn’t mind standing her ground against anyone in their defense. She was the type of person you wanted on your side in a battle. Loyal until the end, Debbie will be greatly missed, always loved and forever cherished. Debbie was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Charm Wildy; her brother, Michael Freeman; and her long-time companion, Philip Stokes, who held a special place in her heart. She leaves to honor her legacy: her three devoted children, Myesha Dione, James Hurt, Jr., and Tyese Sullivan; two loving sons-in-law, Elhadji Dione and Bernard Sullivan; four cherished grandchildren, Carlito, Jaiden, Heiress and Bernard Jr.; two brothers, Clarence Freeman Jr. and Edgar Sanders; sister-in-law, Lisa Sanders; and a host of family, friends, colleagues, and former students whose lives are forever richer because she was part of them.

Tributes

Deborah Jean Freeman

January 31, 1947 - December 7, 2025