Shreveport Community Unites to Remember Ronald Paul Free

Community gathering in honor of Ronald Paul Free

News Summary

On December 23, 2024, Shreveport lost Ronald Paul Free, a beloved leader and family man. His contributions and love for the community are remembered as friends and family gather for a life celebration service on December 29, 2024.

Shreveport Community Unites to Remember Ronald Paul Free: A Legacy of Leadership and Love

On December 23, 2024, the vibrant city of Shreveport lost a beloved figure, Ronald Paul Free, affectionately known to friends and family as “Ronnie.” His passing has left a significant void in the hearts of many, as the community comes together to celebrate his remarkable life and contributions.

A Life Well Lived

Ronnie was born on May 23, 1941, in Shreveport, Louisiana, where his roots ran deep. He graduated from C.E. Byrd High School in 1959, carrying with him a strong sense of family values and determination. In 1961, tragedy struck when his father passed away, necessitating Ronnie to return home from Texas A&M University. Rising to the occasion, he took the helm of Free’s Commercial Refrigeration, a family business that had been established by his father in 1949 and served the community from the same location on Samford Avenue for an impressive 63 years.

A Love Story for the Ages

Ronnie’s journey in both life and business led him to a fortuitous meeting in 1961, where he crossed paths with his future wife, Margaret Sue Attaway. Their fateful encounter blossomed into a beautiful marriage that would last an incredible 61 years. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and faith. The couple was devoted members of Broadmoor United Methodist Church for over six decades, where they contributed meaningfully to their faith community.

Innovator and Community Leader

Renowned for his innovative and “can-do” approach, Ronnie became a prominent industry leader in the United States. In the 1980s, he developed the groundbreaking Free’s Directed Airflow system, which was installed in facilities worldwide, showcasing his ingenuity and business acumen. After retiring, Ronnie transformed the family business’s property into The Boat House, a storage facility for boats and RVs, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit even in retirement.

A Family Man Above All

Beyond his professional achievements, Ronnie was cherished for his role as a devoted family man. He adored spending time with his grandchildren, who lovingly referred to him as “Papa.” He is survived by his loving wife, daughters Ronda Free Trawick and Stacey Free Hargon, along with five adoring grandchildren. His family garners comfort from the legacy of love and faith he imparted to them.

A Heartfelt Farewell

A life celebration service will take place on December 29, 2024, at First Methodist Church, where family, friends, and community members will gather to honor the man who touched so many lives. Pallbearers will include close family friends and professional associates, signifying the strong bonds that Ronnie cultivated throughout his life.

Gratitude and Reflection

During his final months, the Free family expressed heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers and visitors who supported them in their time of need—a reminder of the love that surrounds them. As the community reflects on Ronnie’s life, a biblical verse, Matthew 25:21, resonates deeply, reflecting his unwavering faith and commitment to his beliefs.

A Community in Mourning

As Shreveport mourns the loss of this esteemed businessman and devoted family man, we remember Ronnie Free not just for his professional accomplishments, but for his immense heart, generosity, and the indelible mark he left on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will live on through the love he shared and the lives he touched, as his family and friends carry forward his spirit.