Arie Rainell Freeman

Arie Rainell Freeman, affectionately known as “Nell,” was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend who passed away peacefully, leaving a Legacy of love, faith and unmatched strength that will remain in the hearts of all who loved her.

Nell entered adulthood at the tender age of 15 when she married Frederick McClain. By 16, she was already the mother of two children—a journey that marked the beginning of her lifelong resilience.

Throughout her life, Nell faced both challenges and triumphs, but she never allowed hardship to define her. She was a devoted and loving mother whose children were the center of her world. Whenever you saw her, she spoke proudly of them—even during the moments when they may have tested her patience.

Throughout her life, Nell shared an especially close bond with her daughter, Tracey, who called her Mamacita! She was rarely seen without her, and when Tracey appeared alone, someone would often ask, “Where is your mom?” or “How is your mom?” Tracey included Nell in everything—from vacations and trips to Columbus to visit dear friends, to shopping outings, gambling trips, football games, and, most importantly, attending church and praising the Lord together.

Nell loved her son, Carlos, deeply and was his greatest supporter, along with being a devoted fan of his. Carlos was a talented football player, and she never missed a game, cheering him on all the way to the Bulldogs’ State Championship in 1981. As a single parent, she made sure Los had the best shoes and clothes, no matter what the cost. She always came through for him.

Sports was a part of her life, for ALL her brothers were gifted in sports, still holding records at McKinley! Her support continued with her three grandsons, who became stars on both the field and the court. She was incredibly proud of all they accomplished and never missed a chance to brag about them, proudly telling everyone that she had a principal, a Canton City police officer, and an electrical apprentice in the family. Her great-grandson, Josue, also brought joy to her days whenever he visited, and she always had a special gift waiting for him.

Nell was born March 14, 1949. She attended Roosevelt Elementary School and McKinley High School. She was a cheerleader and was known for her volleyball skills back in the day. She worked for many years Babcock & Wilcox, Diebold and finally the Hoover Company. She gained so many lasting friendships throughout her years of laboring. She was also a member of Juneites Club and a faithful member of Deliverance Christian Church until her health failed, and the (MRG)Mahoning Road Gang, which was a group of lady friends who joined together for prayer and fellowship monthly, headed by Mrs. Bootsy Johnson

She was proceeded in death by her mother, Louise Jackson Cochran, her father, her stepfather Robert Cochran, Her son-in-law, Gus Mackey, a grandson, Matthew Mackey, and ALL her siblings: JT, Herman, Mubashir (Charles), Donald, Marvin, Gwen, and Geraldine.

Nell leaves to cherish her memory her son, Carlos McClain (Brenda Smalls) Canton OH; daughter, Tracey Mackey of the home, her grandsons, Jamon and Jamaal McClain, Canton OH and Treyton Mackey of Columbus, OH; Great-Grandchildren Josue’ McClain and Genesis Boles, her granddaughter, Sparkle Mackey; and her step-grandson, Augustia (Courtney) Mackey, and his family. She is also lovingly remembered by her lifelong sister-friend, Marilora Rederick; special nieces, Wakina (Yuri) Smith and Tonya (Jay) McDonald; very special friend LaVonda McLean of Columbus, Ohio; her cousin, Percy Banks, who was like a brother to her; and her Mastin family, especially Gene Mastin and Jean Marshall. She also leaves her sister-in-law, Lois Jones; the entire McClain family, with whom she remained close over the years; her nephew, Dwayne Crawford, who was always there whenever she needed him; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Nell was deeply loved by many, including those who affectionately claimed her as a surrogate mother. Phillip (Rayquanette) Hunter, Cliffie Davis, Tracy Foster. Charlotte, RaeRae and ToniAnne Jamerson will dearly miss their “Nana,” as will Charmaine Goodman, her aide for many years, who remained with her until her final days. Deshawnna Petties has also been there endlessly for Mamacita. She was also especially close to her son’s friends, including Ted Matthews, Sid Lewis, Marvin Harris and the late Michael Freeman, who lovingly called her “Mom.” Chris Smith, Annie Pleasant and Donetta Tabler also held a special place in the heart of Nell.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm at Deliverance Christian Church, 2631 Harvard Ave NW, Canton, OH 44709, with a Home Going Celebration at 12:00 pm.

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