Freelyn Wayne Gearhart, age 80, of Shelby, died Wednesday afternoon, February 8, 2023 at Carington Park in Ashtabula.
Freelyn was born December 2, 1942 in Olive Hill, Carter County, KY, the son of the late Emory L. and Sally (Nichols) Gearhart. A 1961 graduate of Shelby High School, Freelyn enlisted in the United States Air Force serving during the Vietnam War from 1962-1966. Following honorable discharge, he remained a part of the Air Force reserves until 1968. Freelyn always lived a life of adventure and it was that sense of adventure that took him all over the country. Wherever he went, he always found work and self-confessed as a “jack of all trades and master of none.” Various industries of work included, but was never limited to: oil fields, law enforcement- specifically the Shelby Police Department, construction and manufacturing. His talents certainly included being incredibly handy and capable of fixing nearly anything.
Freelyn was married to Bertie (Byrd) Gearhart and was the proud father of 4 children: Dorinda Wagner of Shelby, F. Wayne (Jodi) Gearhart of Lancaster, PA, Brenda Gearhart, and Jeff (Michelle) Gearhart both of Loveland. In addition, he was an especially proud dad to the most loyal dog and confident protector, Blue. Freelyn connected strongly with his grandchildren- positives relationships that were cherished by not only him but his grandchildren just the same: Shane (Nicole) Gearhart, Jordan Gearhart, Garrett (Ellie) Bradley, Regan Gearhart, Reilly Gearhart, Rachel Gearhart, Jacob Gearhart, Cooper Gearhart, Colton Gearhart, and Aleah Gearhart; and great grandchildren: Morgen, Luke, Clint, Hunter, and Tanner. He is also survived by a brother: Woody (Bev) Gearhart; sisters: Loretta (Dave) Wilson, Aretta Wiggins, Donna (Gary) Ramsey, and Marcia Kegley; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. In addition to his parents, Freelyn was preceded in death by an infant sister: Shelva Jean; a niece: Kelly Ann Wilson-Hockenberry; and a nephew: Benjamin Gearhart.
Per Freelyn’s wishes, calling hours and funeral services will not be observed. Care for Freelyn and his family is being provided by the Penwell Turner Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby. Condolences for the family may be left on his obituary on the funeral home’s website, www.PenwellTurner.com, or their Facebook Page, www.Facebook.com/PenwellFuneral
Funeral home : Penwell Turner Funeral Home
