Mary Janet Freeman, age 72, of Indian Trail, North Carolina passed away on Wednesday, March 26, 2025.
Born in Newton, NJ to Steven and Elizabeth Stanowicz, Mary grew up in the small town of Hackettstown, NJ. She met the love of her life, Kenneth Freeman (deceased 2011), and together they embarked on a life full of adventure. Their journey took them to Germany while serving in the Army, then to the quiet town of Wright, Wyoming, before settling in Charlotte, NC. There, they watched their children grow and build lives of their own.
Mary will be deeply missed by her four children – Jason, Sientje, Kenneth, and Lance – along with her beloved “outlaws” Lara, Shane, and Jane. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Ethan, Adrian, Carter, Kennedy, Betsy, and Adelaide. Her three siblings: Steven (Joy) Stanowicz; Sientje (Terry) Smith; Stahsha Diaz; Janet Freeman (SIL) as well as all her nieces and nephews, will also cherish her memory. Above all, Mary LOVED her family with her whole heart.
Mary’s life was filled with laughter, love, and adventure. She was always the first to hit the dance floor, reveling in music and the joy of the moment. She treasured time with her grandchildren and delighted in taking her dog, Lucy, on scenic car rides through the countryside. In her younger years, she had an adventurous spirit, leading camping trips and sightseeing excursions with her four kids in tow – often exclaiming, “Hey kids, look!” Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she found great joy in Bible study, both at church and at home.
Whether at the beach, in the mountains, or simply gathered around the table with family, Mary’s generous heart shone brightly. She extended kindness to those in need, welcoming them into her home and treating them as part of the family. Her love knew no bounds, and her legacy of warmth, faith, and adventure will live on in all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Memorial visitation will be from 9:30 am – 11:30 am on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at Cochran Funeral Home, 905 High Street, Hackettstown, NJ with services beginning at 11 am. Burial of cremains will follow at Union Cemetery, Hackettstown.

Condolence(1)-
Carole Lanterman says
April 11, 2025 at 1:20 pmMary was a childhood friend. We went to school from 1st grade at St. Mary’s and Hackettstown High. Had alot of good memories going up in Hackettstown. I will miss you my friend. Love Carole Lanterman