Gabriel Emmanuel Freeman, age 7, of Vernon, passed away on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at DCH Hospital in Fayette. Gabriel was born on May 7, 2018, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, to Kristina Freeman and Jullian Coleman. He faithfully attended First United Pentecostal Church of Vernon. Gabriel was a kindergartener at Vernon Elementary School where he adored his teachers, Mrs. Nabors, Mrs. CeCe, and Mrs. Tina, all of whom were a tremendous help and blessing to Gabriel and his family. Gabriel was an incredibly happy and loving child despite his sickness. He continually defied all odds by eating, drinking, talking and walking with assistance even when doctors believed he never would. His joyful spirit and determination touched everyone who knew him. Gabriel loved playing Mario Brothers video games and enjoyed watching Thomas and Friends along with many of his favorite YouTube shows. One of his favorite things to do was gather everyone’s phones in the house so he could watch all of his favorite shows at the same time. More than anything, Gabriel loved his family. He had a special bond with his grandfather and shared a close friendship with his cousin and best friend, Khalil. His sweet smile, gentle spirit, and the happiness he shared so freely will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Gabriel is survived by his mother, Kristina Freeman; his father, Jullian Coleman; his siblings, Abree Freeman, Cierra Smith, Demetrius Freeman, Jaime Salinas, Alma Salinas, Ashleigh Garcia, and Hannah Garcia; his grandparents, Ronald and Gail Freeman; his aunts, Mary and Charlotte; his uncles, James, Jimmy, Rich, and Cashonne McKnight; his close cousins, Arianna and Khalil Lange; and many other family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his great-grandparents, L.C. and Mary Porter.

Funeral services for Gabriel will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. from the Bowen Funeral Home Chapel with burial to follow in the Dickinson-Wates Family Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 12:00 noon until 1:00 p.m., service time, at the funeral home.

Bowen Funeral Home serving the Freeman family.