Fred Reed

Mr. Fred Reed, "Pop," age 89, of Utica, passed away on Monday, July 7, 2008 at Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with his loving family by his side. Born in Bonaire, Georgia on May 6, 1919, Fred was the son of the late Lenzy and Beulah (Smith) Reed. Fred married Emma Lou Brown on March 12, 1939, and they enjoyed 58 years of marriage. For many years, Fred worked for the Joe Garrett Construction Co., building one of the first McDonalds in the Utica area. Fred also worked as a custodian with the Utica City School District for 17 years, retiring in 1982, to care for his wife. A strong man by nature, Fred was an individual who cared for his family, friends and loved ones. His family brought much joy to his life, especially the blessing of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Debating was his favorite pastime, and he always had the last word, particularly in discussing politics. He was a faithful member of St. Paul’s Baptist Church in Utica, where he served on the Trustee Board, was an original member of the Acapella Choir, and a member of the "370" Club. Fred is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law, Melvina Adams (Burnie), Margaret Reed-Shelton (Eugene) and Darlene Shelton, all of Utica; his son, Fred Reed, Jr. (Carla) of Oakland, CA; his grandchildren, Thomas Reed, Bryan Adams (Florence), Marlene Reed-Hymes, Richard Reed (Aleve), Jason Adams, Nirvana Cobb, and Xavier Louis Reed; and his 8 great-grandchildren. Survivors also include many in-laws, nieces, nephews and a host of relatives and friends, with special attention to his sister-in-law, Lois Brown. He also leaves his friends, Evie Anderson, Jerome Hymes, a goddaughter Ann Bowens, a special great-grandson, Jermar Reed-Hymes, and his Lansing Street "family." The family extends appreciation to Dr. Emile Wassel, Dr. Yekaterina Kashtanova, Dr. Arul Kannan and Dr. Atul Butala. Also, thanks to the nurses and staff of the Allen-Calder Residential Healthcare Facility for their special care and attention. Many thanks to the staff and residents at St. Luke's Nursing Home – Clark North. Visitation will be held Friday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Kidney Foundation. Funeral services will be on Saturday at 11:00 at St. Paul's Baptist Church, 219 Leah St. Interment will take place in Forest Hill Cemetery.

Fred Reed

May 6, 1919 - July 7, 2008