James Haviland Freeman

James Haviland Freeman, a devoted steward of nature and cherished family man, departed from this world on September 11, 2025, at the age of 80, surrounded by his loving family in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Born on October 12, 1944, in Edmond, Oklahoma, Jim's life was one woven from threads of passion, devotion, and an unyielding love for both his family and the environment.

A proud veteran, Jim served in the Air Force from January 1964 to January 1968, where he lent his skills as an airplane mechanic during the Vietnam War. Yet, it was his post-military life that truly showcased his dedication to nurturing the world around him. He embarked on a notable career with the New Mexico State Forestry Division, retiring in 1996 after impactful service in both law enforcement and urban forestry divisions. Jim’s heart truly shone when he donned his Smoky the Bear costume—a beloved symbol of the fight for fire safety—educating countless school-aged children about the importance of caring for their environment. His soul thrived in the creation of urban tree canopies, and Jim reveled in being an active participant in numerous tree planting events throughout New Mexico.

After his tenure with the State Forestry Division, Jim continued his passion through Tree Technologies from 1996 to 2014, where he educated homeowners on tree care, diagnosed tree ailments, and fostered lush green spaces in Santa Fe, making the community not just greener but more vibrant. His Bachelor of Science in Forestry from Northern Arizona University anchored a life committed to understanding and preserving nature's bounty.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jim’s spirit found joy in nature itself. He embraced the serenity of the outdoors with open arms, often seen pulling weeds or gently pruning the trees in his yard, finding solace in the smells of Ponderosa pine and the feel of deciduous leaves brushing against his fingertips. An adventurer at heart, he loved hiking with his daughter, hunting and fishing with his sons, and sharing summers filled with extended camping trips alongside his beloved wife, Joyce.

Jim's love for Joyce, his partner of 60 years, was palpable and unwavering. Their home, which he lovingly built, served as a backdrop for countless memories filled with laughter, adventure, and warmth. Known for leaving little love notes around the house, he cherished every moment spent together, whether holding her hand under a vast sky or simply sharing his daily life. The love they cultivated flourished into the beautiful family they raised, which includes their daughter Cristine (Dusty) Silver, son Eric (Natalie) Freeman, son Jeff Freeman, and grandchildren Owen Noble, Forest Freeman, Avery Tuck, and Brody Silver. Jim found immeasurable pride in their accomplishments, celebrating the gift of fatherhood and grandparenthood with a heart full of gratitude.

His creative spirit extended into woodworking; his hands were adept at crafting various pieces of furniture, each item embodying the care and love he poured into his craft for his family. Moreover, his role as a deacon at his church reflects the steadfast values he lived by, helping build not just his house but also the community that gathered within its walls.

The echoes of Jim’s laughter, the twinkle of his eyes when surrounded by loved ones, and the whisper of leaves in the trees will resonate in the hearts of those lucky enough to know him. His passing leaves a chasm in the lives of those who adored him, yet his legacy thrives in the green spaces he nurtured and the collective memory of a life well-lived.

A memorial service celebrating Jim's life will be held on October 18, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Rivera Family Funeral & Cremations of Santa Fe. In remembrance, let us gather together to honor the man who taught us the value of nurturing both nature and each other, forever a smokey guardian of our hearts.