Dana Felicia Freeman's Obituary
Dana Felicia Freeman, a beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, cousin, aunt and friend, passed away on August 5, 2025, at her daughter’s home in Paulding County, Georgia. She was 66 years old. Born on April 23, 1959, in Newnan, Georgia.
Later the Freemans moved to Austell, Ga where they called home. Dana graduated from South Cobb High School in 77. Dana worked for her father at his business, Austell Rent All during her high school years. The business was sold after her father’s death. After graduation, she moved to Panama City Beach, where she worked at a T-shirt shack printing designs for tourists. She later returned to Georgia and began working at BBJ Rental Inc in Mableton. From there, she teamed up with Bonnie Bloedow to hang wallpaper, showcasing her eye for detail and love for hands-on work.
Dana eventually earned her nail technician certification and began offering services from home. In 1995, Dana found her true calling as a bartender at Reid’s Deli, where she truly shined. She loved her work and built lasting relationships with her coworkers, customers, and bosses—many of whom became lifelong friends.
Later, she turned her talents to restoring original hardwood floors, a job she took great pride in, reviving the natural beauty of every room she touched. Dana had a deep love for music—especially Lynyrd Skynyrd, Pink Floyd, John Mellencamp, Eddie Money, and The Black Crowes. She was an avid NASCAR fan, never missing a Sunday race with Dale Earnhardt in the iconic black #3 car. She loved riding her 1997 Harley-Davidson 883 Sportster and always had a stash of Reese’s holiday-shaped peanut butter treats—her all-time favorite.
Dana is survived by her loving daughter, Kristen Dodgen; her son-in-law, Joshua Dodgen; and her cherished grandson, Memphis Dodgen, all of Paulding County. She is also lovingly remembered by extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by her father, Cleston Wilbur “CW” Freeman; her mother, Jacqueline “Jackie” Carr; and her brother, Jon David “Whitie” Freeman.
A visitation will be held on August 23, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, with a memorial service to follow at 2:00 PM in the chapel at Davis-Struempf Funeral Home and Crematory.
Dana will be remembered for her strength, humor, authenticity, and the joy she brought into every room. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Dana's name to the Alzheimer's Association at Alz.org
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