Jean May Baker Freitas, 79, passed away on February 27, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, to Marie Croghan and David Baker, she was raised in Halifax alongside her brothers, Mark Baker and Paul Baker. She carried a deep love for her grandmother, May (Purpora) Croghan, whose wisdom and nurturing spirit inspired her throughout her life.

 

From a young age, Jean was drawn to creativity, dreaming of becoming an artist. But life’s journey led her in different directions—first to hairdressing school, and later to careers at the phone company, as an aide for the elderly, at Sears, and within the Middleboro Public School system. Jean's spirit was one of boundless talent and passion, a woman who was always singing, laughing, and infusing joy into the lives of those around her.

 

In 1964, she married the love of her life, Anthony Freitas Sr., and together they shared 41 years of marriage until his passing in 2005. She was also predeceased by her son, Russell Freitas, and her brother, Paul Baker.

Jean leaves behind her children: Anthony “Tony” Freitas Jr. and his wife Karen, Kathleen Freitas, and Kristine Freitas Gillis and her husband James. She cherished her grandchildren deeply—Marissa Freitas, Nicholas Freitas, Cierra Jean Freitas, and Bobby Moore, who were her greatest joy, her most proud achievement, and the light of her life. She is also survived by her brother, Mark Baker, and by Joseph St. Jean and Fred Lavallee, whom she cherished as brothers.

 

Jean was a woman who lived fully with an open heart, always placing the needs of others before her own. Her generosity was matched only by her kindness. She was an active member of her church and choir, and she poured love into her community in countless ways. She had a deep love for books, always saying they were her way to travel the world. She found beauty in nature and took great joy in tending to her garden, picking flowers, and lovingly arranging them for the church. Whether she was singing, sharing a joke, or making others smile, her presence was always warm and full of life—her laughter was bright and infectious, filling every space she entered.

 

A woman of great faith, Jean lived her life with kindness, generosity, and an unwavering belief in God. She had a spark, a spunk, and an energy that lit up every room. She lived by the motto FROG – Forever Rely on God, and never sought recognition for herself, instead dedicating her life to uplifting those around her.

 

Visiting hours will be held on Monday, March 3, 2025, from 4 until 7 p.m. at O'Neill Funeral Home, 59 Peirce Street (corner of School Street), Middleboro. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. in Sacred Heart Church of Saint Isidore Parish. Interment will follow at Saint Mary Cemetery.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:  www.stjude.org

 

A woman of many hats, Jean’s legacy of love, laughter, strength, and generosity will forever resonate with all who were lucky enough to know her. The light she shared will continue to inspire and live on in the hearts of those she touched.

 

To offer your condolences online, please visit our website:  www.oneillfuneral.com