On Monday, October 7, 2024, a memorial service was held at the Margaritaville Conference Center to celebrate the life of Montgomery Fire Fighter Charles “Buddy” Freeman. Over 500 attended the service with firefighters as far away as New York attending. Charles “Buddy” Freeman II, born July 18, 1984, passed away on the afternoon of September 29, 2024 at the age of 40. Buddy lived a life of selfless service, serving as a corporal for the United States Marine Corps and later as a Lieutenant for the Montgomery Fire Department. As a Marine, Buddy proved his tenacity and dedication to his country over his 6 years of service. While on active duty, beginning in 2003, Buddy was deployed to Cuba, Japan, and Iraq twice to protect our freedoms and did so with the utmost pride. While there is no such thing as a former Marine, Buddy did transition away from the military and into the fire service. His decision was greatly influenced by his father Butch Hayes. He began his career at Montgomery Fire Department in October 2010 and served faithfully until his passing in September of 2024. Buddy was a quick study, and his leadership skills did not go unnoticed. He was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in April 2013. During his years as an officer with the Montgomery Fire Department, Buddy trained and mentored countless numbers of young firefighters. He could be described as a firefighter officer. He always looked out for his guys and was not afraid to speak his mind. Buddy is a definition of a strong-willed individual. It can be said without question that the actions Buddy took throughout his life and the courageous sacrifices he made contributed to countless lives saved. His impact and legacy will forever be remembered. Buddy loved his career and the guys at the station, but what he loved most was his family. Buddy and his wife April were high school sweethearts, meeting at the young age of 16, and were married on April 22, 2005. They would go on to have two beautiful children Payton and Porter. Life with Buddy was always an adventure, and he cherished time with his family spent camping, mudding, kayaking, and most recently sailing. Charles “Buddy” Freeman was an incredible man, son, brother, husband and father. His courage and strength were unmatched and will not be forgotten. Buddy was preceded in death by Grandmother Rosemary Hebbler, Grandparents Mary Lou and Emil (Bud) Freeman, and Grandparents Mary and Bo Hayes. He is survived by his wife April Sue Freeman and two children Payton and Porter Freeman., Parents Sandra and Butch Hayes, his Brother Cody Howard, Brother-in-law Dallas Howard, Grandfather George (Buck) Hebbler, Uncle Rusty Hebbler, Aunt and Uncle Lori and Dave Wentworth, and Cousins.
