B
ill Freeman, a prominent Nashville property developer and Democratic Party fundraiser, has died at the age of 73. According to Metro Police officials, Freeman was found dead in his home on Sunday night in an apparent suicide. As a well-known business leader and political player, Freeman's passing has left a significant impact on the community.
Rep. Bob Freeman praised his father as a compassionate community leader who always put family first. "Fearless in sharing his opinions, he worked tirelessly to improve lives and leave a lasting impact," Bob Freeman said. Bill Freeman met his wife Babs during elementary school and they were married for many years, raising three sons together.
Freeman co-founded Freeman Webb Co. in 1979 with Jimmy Webb, which has grown into a multifamily real estate investment and management firm with over 18,000 rental homes across the South. The company is known for accepting low-income Section 8 subsidized housing vouchers, making it accessible to those who need it most.
Freeman also owned the Nashville Scene and Nashville Post publications via FW Publishing, which he co-founded. Mayor Freddie O'Connell described Freeman as a "real estate visionary, mayoral candidate, pilot, media magnate, and friend" who will be deeply missed by the city.
Former U.S. Vice President Al Gore shared his grief at the loss of his friend, saying that Bill Freeman was a "giant in our city" known for his commitment to helping Nashville grow and thrive. Gore remembered Freeman's curiosity and dedication to finding new ideas and knowledge to improve the community.
Freeman served on the Metro Nashville Airport Authority Board for eight years before stepping down in March 2023. He retired from running Freeman Webb Co. at that time, saying he was excited to travel more and spend time with his grandchildren. Prior to co-founding Freeman Webb, Freeman worked as director of Downtown Urban Development for the Metropolitan Nashville Development and Housing Agency.
Freeman's community service includes participating in various boards, including the Nashville Davidson County Mental Health and Veterans Assistance Foundation, Kennedy Center Advisory Committee on the Arts, and Tennessee State University Board of Trustees. He was appointed to the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board by President Joe Biden in 2022.
Former Mayor Megan Barry described Freeman as "an incredible force for good" who will be greatly missed by all who knew him. The Tennessee Democratic Party called Freeman a "beacon of kindness, wisdom, and a stalwart community leader."
