Danielle Freeman

Danielle Deidre Freeman was born October 19, 1974, in Orlando, Florida, the child of Willie Burnam and Daniel Johnson. Raised in Altamonte Springs, she graduated from Lyman High School in 1992. Danielle pursued higher education at Howard University in Washington D.C. from 1992 - 1993 before transferring to Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Reflections of Life After moving from Florida to Detroit, Danielle quickly immersed herself in the community, doing what she did best—building meaningful connections and lasting friendships. She created and nurtured many circles, including her STARS Book Club, Thirsty Thursday Crew, Detroit Gals (all transplants +1), and her beloved FAMUly. Steadfast and loyal, Danielle showed up for her people with unwavering kindness, encouragement, and support. And in classic Danielle fashion, she arrived late to nearly every gathering—but always with a smile, some “tea”, and a presence that made the wait worthwhile. Danielle enjoyed a distinguished 25-year career with Ford Motor Company. Beginning in 2000 as a manager/program analyst, she was quickly promoted to management buyer and continued to receive numerous advancements throughout her tenure. A dedicated member of the Detroit Michigan FAMU Alumni Association, Danielle built a deep community of friendship and family over 25 years. In this role, she was a passionate advocate for education and the upward mobility of young Black men and women throughout Detroit. She was also a regular attendee of Triumph Church in Southfield, Michigan. For 15 years, Danielle committed her time and resources to empowering young women through The Rhonda Walker Foundation, which recently honored her with an award for her devoted service. Her life in Detroit included a devoted circle of sisters and friends who shared book clubs, hosted parties, and celebrated milestones together. Danielle was a loving and devoted Daughter, Sister and Aunt who cherished her family deeply, always putting them first. She took great pride in being a great-aunt to Maliyah Ducre whom she affectionately called ‘Tooka’. Family was the foundation of Danielle’s life, which she filled with love, laughter, and indelible memories. Danielle D. Freeman is survived by: her parents, Daniel D. Johnson of Winter Garden, Florida; Willie M. Burnam of Altamonte Springs, Florida; siblings, Cathy West of Orlando, Florida, Paula Shelton of Syracuse, New York, Danette Johnson of Chicago, Illinois, Shamonia Wingster of Clermont, Florida; Sharon Wright of Winter Garden, Florida, Jackie Jones of Columbus, Georgia; Shannon Freeman of Orlando, Florida, Nikki Mallory (Greg) of Orlando, Florida, Nina Freeman of Orlando, Florida, Rhonda Betts of Orlando, Florida, Vonda Bogins of Orlando, Florida, Tarnisha Evans of Orlando, Florida; Pastor Dexter Johnson (Teresa) Rex, Georgia; Sheldrick Holmes (Pam) of Atlanta, Georgia; Anthony Ray (Estana) of Jacksonville, Florida; Todd Brown of Germany, and host of nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.

Tributes

Danielle Freeman

October 19, 1974 - January 17, 2026