James Freeman Porter, 72, died on Tuesday, November 20, 2012, at Vista Care Center @ Franciscan Woods, Columbus, GA, with his family at his side.

Freeman was born in Cartersville, GA, on March 7, 1940.  He was preceded in death by both his parents, Luther Arrington Porter and Anna Mae Martin Porter.

He is survived by his wife, Brenda Lavender Porter; five sons, James F. (Julia Anne) Porter, Jr. of LaGrange, GA, Rodney David (Kimberly Ann) Porter of Hazlehurst, GA, Andrew Martin (Stacey) Porter of Columbus, GA, Derek Michael (Jennifer) Porter of Villa Rica, GA, Heath Arrington (Jeannie) Porter of Thomaston, GA; and one sister, Juanita Laverne Porter Whatley.

Freeman had 15 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Freeman served as a United Methodist Minister.  He came to the Lumpkin United Methodist Church from Ellaville.  He also served United Methodist churches in the Columbus area.  He continued to serve his Lord after retirement as a Minister in Parrott, GA.  He and Brenda choose to live in the Richland area after their retirement.

Visitation will be held Friday, November 23, 2012, at 1:00 PM at the Richland United Methodist Church before the funeral service.

A Church Service will be Friday, November 23, 2012 at the Richland United Methodist Church, at 2:00 PM, with the Reverends  Stan Ballew, Derek Porter and Rodney Porter officiating.  Music will be provided by Juanita Porter Whatley and Nathan Whatley.

Interment is at Parkhill Cemetery in Columbus, GA.  Freeman's grandsons will serve as his Pallbearers:  Jimmy Porter, Keller Porter, David Porter, Benjamin Porter, Rick Ward, Tristan Porter, Brendan Porter, Chandler Morgan, Carson Anderson

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:  Richland United Methodist Church, 609 Hamilton St, Richland, GA, 31825.

Baldwin Funeral Home, 50 Charles Overby Dr., Richland, GA 31825, is in charge of all arrangements.