Clifford Free, a beloved Calhoun businessman, pastor, and EMS pioneer, died Thursday, June 26, 2025. He was 81.
Born in Rome in 1943, Free moved to Calhoun in 1956 and graduated from Calhoun High School in 1962. He began his career in funeral service while still in school, later earning his degree from the Kentucky College of Mortuary Science. In 1979, he opened Clifford Free Funeral Home, which he operated until 2003.
A dedicated minister, Rev. Free pastored churches across North Georgia and was especially fond of his years at New Zion and Corinth Baptist churches. He also made lasting contributions to public health as Gordon County’s first EMT and served as Director of EMS for a decade. His work earned him recognition as a “Pioneer in Emergency Medical Services” and “EMT of the Year.”
Visitation will be held Saturday, June 28, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at South Calhoun Baptist Church. Funeral services will follow on Sunday, June 29, at 3:00 p.m.
