Hubert Cecil Free passed away at his home in Mt. City, Georgia on September 5, 2024. He was born in Habersham County June 30, 1932 to Hubert and Mildred O'Quinn Free. 

Mr. Free was a 1952 graduate of Rabun County High School and Co-Captain of the first football team.  He was a life-long fan and most recently enjoyed watching the games via the internet. 

After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served in the Korean War from July 18, 1952 to July 13, 1956. Following his discharge he returned to Rabun County and worked for James Lees and Sons Carpet and Burlington Industries. Upon retirement, he enjoyed providing lawn care services throughout the county.

Cecil was a loyal Dawg and Braves fan. He enjoyed country and gospel music, puzzles, westerns, and working in his yard. He enjoyed time with friends and family and especially his dog Boo.

Preceding him in death were his parents and his stepfather, John Harvey.

Cecil is survived by his wife of 71 years, Jeanette Tomlin Free of the home and his special caregiver, June Littrell. He is also survived by his daughter Anne Rickman (Claude) Rabun Gap, GA and son Jim Free (Jodi) of Cary, NC. 

Grandchildren: Ashleigh (Jordan) Green, Clayton, GA; Anna Cole Rickman (Tyler Wylie), Clayton, GA; Daniel and Riley Free, Cary, NC; Ethan Cockerham, Cary, NC; Zack (Brittany) Cockerham, Wilmington, NC

Great-grandchildren: Sydney Green, Grayson and Shelby Cockerham

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on September 11, 2024 at the Rabun Gap Presbyterian Church, 8397 Wolffork Road, Rabun Gap, GA followed by a time of visitation.

Interment will be at Pickett Cemetery in Clayton, GA.

The family wishes to express their appreciation to Janine Horner and Gail McCoy (caregivers), Dr. Edward Frederickson and staff at Highlands Internal Medicine, U-Sav-It pharmacists and staff, Lincare, Mt. Lakes Hospital, Northeast Georgia Medical Center and Hospice, Amedysis Home Health, Rev. Don Barber, Rabun Gap Presbyterian Church, and the many friends and family members who have prayed for and supported the family.     

In lieu of flowers please consider supporting the Pickett Cemetery Fund (33 Pleasant Hill Lane, Clayton, GA 30525) or an organization of your choice.

Beck Funeral Home, in Clayton, Georgia, is in charge of the arrangements and is honored to serve the family of Cecil Free. If there are any questions, please call 706-782-9599. An online Memorial Register Book is available at www.beckfuneralhome.com.