ROCKWALL, TX (March 19, 2014) Gary Freedman may be best known for his voice, but the public speaker and charity auctioneer does much more than talk. In his 60-something years, the Rockwall resident has helped raise more than 3.7 million dollars for at least 50 nonprofit organizations, many of them here in his hometown.
Gary’s talents include music, poetry, theater and dance – even sports announcing on ESPN. He is currently producing Steel Magnolias, which opens March 21 at Rockwall Community Playhouse.
We caught up with Gary after he won the Ralph M. Hall Achievement Award at the Rockwall County GOP’s Reagan Day Dinner, where he led a record-setting live auction. He graciously agreed to be part of our Good People profile series.
You are known to many as “The Voice of Rockwall.” How did you earn that moniker?
I moved to Rockwall County in the mid 80’s. I met Congressman Ralph Hall on the street and introduced myself. He said, “Where did you get that voice?” I told him I was in radio years ago and worked for Gordon McLendon, the radio pioneer of the 1950s. Hall said, “I’ve known Gordon for years. From now on, I’m going to call you The Voice of Rockwall.” The moniker stuck. I am proud to carry it because it comes from a man I truly admire.
You volunteer much of your time auctioneering. What is your full-time occupation?
I am the Vice President at NFC Life and have been there 39 years. I also do commercials on a part-time basis and do PR work for various companies.
Your alma mater?
Bellaire High School in Houston and the University of Houston.
Tell us about your family.
I am married to my best friend Debra, and between us we have three sons, two daughter in-laws, and three grandsons. We have a cat named Ginger and a Yorkshire Terrier named Rowdy. We live in The Preserve neighborhood of Rockwall; I built the first house there five years ago.
What clubs are you involved with and what positions have you held?
I serve on the Rockwall Community Playhouse board. Several years ago, I was the RCP president. I’m on the executive board of the Republican Men’s Club. I’ve been involved with Rockwall HeartChase, Friends of CASA, Women in Need, Alliance for the Arts and Blue Pegasus Foundation. I’ve helped out the Women’s League, and served on Rowlett’s Historical Foundation board. I was an officer on the Friends of the Rowlett Library board, and chairman of the board for Behind the Scenes, a group that works with at-risk children. Over the years, I’ve probably served on 25 different boards.
What event or cause has been the most rewarding?
For 10 years, I announced the ballgames for Angel League, a baseball program for children with special needs. It is still one of the most fulfilling things I have ever done. I’ve also announced the Rockwall Christmas Parade for 10 years.
What is the most interesting job you’ve ever held?
I announced 199 horse shows around the world. I did the Washington International Horse Show on ESPN back in the 80’s and got to meet President and Nancy Reagan. I was featured on CBS Good Morning, where my wife Debra first saw me.
You are not only involved in the community, but you are also active on Facebook, where you post inspirational messages that many people follow. How did you get started doing that?
I have been collecting inspirational quotes for 30 years. I share them with others to make their days and lives better. We live in a negative society, and I just try to make things better for people.
Tell us something others may be surprised to learn about you.
I took dance for many years as a child, and studied under Patsy Swayze, Patrick Swayze’s mother.
What are you passionate about?
I am passionate about making a difference in people’s lives – especially young people. I try to encourage them to be the best they can be. Don’t ever be afraid to try something new.
Anything you want to add?
I truly love and appreciate the Rockwall community, the friends I have made here, and the overall commitment we have to improving the quality of life here.
By Dawn Redig, Blue Ribbon News, all rights reserved.
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