Robert Earl Reed

He was born in Rockport, Massachusetts to Mr. and Mrs. Earl Reed. He graduated from Gloucester High School and enlisted in the United States Navy.

ADR1 Robert Earl Reed USN RETIRED proudly served in the United States Navy as an Aviation Machinist Mate First Class for 20 years. He was deployed for two tours during the Vietnam War.

He received the National Defense Service Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal (1st award), National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Air Medal (1st), Good Conduct Award (Fifth) and the Meritorious Unit Commendation and a 50+ year member with the Fleet Reserve Program.

His love for exploration led him to a life full of adventure. He was a private commercial pilot and boat captain while living in Melbourne, FL. He loved boat racing, NASCAR, and participated in the Richard Petty driving experience several times. He always cheered on the New England Patriots and Tom Brady. He recently received a Badge of Honor from the Desoto County Sheriff for his dedication for volunteering for the Southaven Police Department. He celebrated his 75th birthday skydiving, his 85th surprise birthday at the Charlotte, NC Raceway and his 90th birthday celebration at his church with family and friends. He loved helping others and was always working on a project. He lived life to the fullest and always had a smile on his face.

One of his greatest accomplishments was his 49 years of sobriety!! He was a positive example to so many and proved it was possible to reach. He was a supportive sponsor and a mentor.

He was a member of Providence Baptist Church in Bartlett, TN where he was baptized and gave his life to Jesus. He looked forward to greeting everyone at the door before church.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Bob are his wife, the love of his life for the last 23 years, Virginia “Ginny” Gresham-Reed, his daughters that he was so proud of and loved deeply Donna (Kevin) Kidwell, Deborah Urban, and Lisa (Mike) Ricker.

Stepchildren Andy (Beth) Gresham, Ricky (Angela) Gresham, Missy (John) Street and Scott (Lexi) Gresham.

Grandchildren Robert Urban, Daniel (Hannah) Urban, Sarah Anne (James) Roberts and Sarah Emily (Jeremy) Callicutt.

Step-Grandchildren Alden Laufeyjarson, Jonathan Street, Hunter Gresham, Zachary Gresham (Bailey), Jessi Oaks and Reese Gresham.

Great grandchildren Carter, Caroline, MaryKathryn, Hailey, Carly, Noah, Sawyer, Kevin, Avery and Leah.

His precious kitties BooBoo and Kitty Boy.

He was preceded in death by his father, Earl Reed, his mother, Ruth Reed and his sister, Lois Kleindeinst.

The visitation will be Thursday, January 23, 2025, at 1:00 pm with a celebration of life at 2:00 pm at Providence Baptist Church 4351 N. Germantown Rd. Arlington, TN 38002.

In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made in his memory to Providence Baptist Church.