Howard Letrelle Free Sr

Reflections of Life

Mr. Howard Letrelle Free, affectionately known to his family and friends as "Trelle," was born on March 10, 1948, in Union, South Carolina, to the late William Elmo Free, Jr. and late Zora Juanita Free. He transitioned on Thursday, December 26, 2024, at Spartanburg Regional Hospital.

A Life Well Spent…

Growing up in Union, South Carolina Trelle was a proud graduate of Sims High School, Class of 1966. During high school he was an Eagle Scout and member of the Royal Knights.  He loved music and enjoyed playing the saxophone.  He later earned his degree in Political Science from Benedict College in 1970.  Trelle loved the Benedict Tigers and attending their football games. He loved outdoor activities and would be found fishing, playing tennis and golf.

Trelle’s career was marked by his contributions to both education, industry, and business. He began his professional journey as a teacher in Carlisle, South Carolina, before transitioning to work in the business sector at Milliken in Union and Westinghouse, where he served as a buyer. In the late 1970’s he returned home to operate Free's Shoe Shop as the third-generation shoe repairman, where he became a well-known figure in the local community for his hard work and commitment to service. His passion along with his brother’s passion for the family business allowed Free’s Shoe Shop to remain open for over 100 years making this the longest standing African American business in downtown Union, South Carolina history.

A dedicated life-long member of Corinth Baptist Church, Trelle served as a Trustee.  Masonically, he was a member of Widow Son Lodge #34, Enterprise Chapter #25 Holy Royal Arch Mason, Knights Templar Masons Commandery #4 Prince Hall Affiliated, and Tamin Temple #155 Shriners Prince Hall Affiliated. In the community, he served as a faithful board member of the Housing Authority of Union for 28 years.

Those Who Remain…

Trelle's legacy is cherished by his loving wife, Gayle Free. He is also survived by his two daughters, Venyke Free (Warren) Harley and Lisa Pittard; four sons, Howard (Regina) Free, Patrick (Felicia) Rogers, Ronald (Chanell) Pittard, and Marcus (Sharon) Pittard. He leaves behind two beloved siblings, Eleanor (George) Devlin and William (Carol) Free III; one sister-in-law, Vickie Coleman Hogan; one brother-in-law, Emerson (Carol) Coleman, as well as two special cousins, Charlotte Ferguson Taylor and Warren Hearn. His family was the heart of his life, and his memory will live on through his fourteen grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Trelle’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be remembered for his fun spirit, his unwavering love for his family and friends, and his lifelong commitment to his faith and community. He touched the lives of many, and his memory will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege to know him.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at Corinth Baptist Church in Union, South Carolina at eleven o’clock.  A repast will be held at the church immediately following the funeral. The burial will be held at two o’clock in the afternoon at Lincoln Memorial Gardens, 2256 Cannons Camp Road, Spartanburg, SC 29307.

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