John Harold Free, affectionately known simply as John, passed away on February 7, 2026, at Piedmont Hospital in Columbus, Georgia. He was 70 years old. His obituary was published by Colonial Funeral Home & Crematory, where family and friends gathered to remember a life defined by faith, family, work and service.
Born on September 9, 1955, in Columbus, Georgia, John leaves behind a large family and a legacy of love and devotion. He was the husband of Deborah Clement Free, his wife of 27 years, and the father of John Alexander Free, Brande Borkowski and Felicia Free Bourgeois.
He was also a cherished stepfather to Amy Wilkerson, Amber Phillips and Robert Register, and a beloved grandfather and great-grandfather whose influence extended across generations.
Remembering John Harold Free
John was remembered as a man of deep faith and strong family values. He obtained a Theology certificate from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and was an active member of Glenn Anthony Baptist Church.
His Christian faith played an important role in his life and guided his relationships with family, friends and members of his community.
Professionally, John retired as a mechanical engineer from Pratt & Whitney, where he was respected for his intelligence and passion for his work.
Outside his career, he enjoyed a wide range of interests. He loved traveling, camping, fishing and hunting and was an enthusiastic Alabama football fan. His adventurous spirit also took him on a mission trip to Peru and a church trip to Israel, where he visited the Sea of Galilee.
John Free’s Family and Legacy
John was preceded in death by his parents, John Lacy Free and Willie Jane Wilson Free; his son Greg Free; and siblings Barbara Burgess, Jerry Free and James Free.
He leaves behind his wife, children, stepchildren, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews and many other loved ones who will carry his memory forward.
Those who knew John remembered his strength, resilience, intelligence and willingness to share his knowledge and opinions. His stories, lessons and experiences will remain part of the family legacy he leaves behind.
Funeral Services for John Free
Visitation was held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Colonial Funeral Home Chapel in Phenix City.
A celebration of life service followed on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 2 p.m., with Pastor Jared Owens officiating. Interment followed at Lakeview Memory Gardens.
John Harold Free will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, engineer, outdoorsman and man of faith whose life was deeply connected to the people he loved.
May John Harold Free rest in peace, and may his family and friends find comfort in the memories, lessons and love he leaves behind.