Freeman Lilborn Pryer

Freeman Pryer, 70, of Blue Springs, Missouri, passed away on Sunday, December 8th, 2024. He would have insisted this start with a joke, but today, the world feels a little less funny without him. A friend to everyone he met, Freeman was known for his thoughtfulness, humor, loyalty, and, of course, his stubbornness. Born in Kansas City, Missouri on October 5, 1954, to Freeman Lilborn Pryer Sr. and Mary Ophelia Matteson Pryer, Freeman grew up with a love for life that never dimmed. He graduated from Van Horn High School and later from UMKC. While in college, he began working part-time at The Neenan Company, where he built a career marked by dedication and integrity, remaining a valued employee until his retirement. You could say he was a fixture there. Freeman forged deep, lasting relationships with coworkers and customers alike. Freeman treasured his childhood friendships, staying in close touch with his lifelong friends. They gathered every other week to share food, laughter, and stories—a tradition he held dear. An enthusiastic bowler and golfer, Freeman also took great joy in cheering for the Royals, Chiefs, and Jayhawks- through all their highs and lows. Freeman was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife, Susan, whom he adored from the moment they met. He is survived by his daughter, Lili (Jason), and his four grandchildren, Nico, Marco, Isaac, and Lucia, who brought endless pride and joy to his life. He is also survived by his sister, Lanetta “Nettie” Chapin (Nathan), and his nephew, John Whitteck (Erin, Penny, and Hudson), along with countless cousins and friends who enriched his life. Freeman often said, “Sometimes it’s better to be lucky than good.” Those of us who knew him can only say we were lucky to have him in our lives. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Kansas City Royals Foundation in his memory. And as you celebrate life’s brightest moments, light the biggest firecracker of the night and think of Freeman. He will be dearly missed.  

A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at First Baptist Church, 207 W Walnut St, Grain Valley, MO 64029.  A Celebration of Life will follow from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM.