He followed in his father’s footsteps and took up the trade of carpentry, eventually becoming a highly skilled master carpenter. Even into his 80s, he remained active in his workshop, crafting side tables, cupboards, and hutches with care and precision. The shop was his happy place, a space where he felt most at peace.
He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, retiring as a Master Sergeant. His service was honored with two Purple Hearts, Being a Marine was always a deeply meaningful part of his identity.
An avid golfer, he captained his team and earned the nickname “Rooster.” He was known not only for his love of the game but also for being a formidable golfer. He was also a passionate football fan and faithfully rooted for the Carolina Panthers.
Music was another lifelong passion. In his younger years, he played in a band and continued to sing and play guitar at fundraisers, holiday gatherings, and family events. He even recorded his own CD of soft country music—sharing his love of song with those around him.
He adored his children and grandchildren. A skilled BBQer and excellent cook, he was especially known for his delicious pies. He had an eye for detail, a deep respect for structure, and always had a plan. He was organized, dependable, and earned respect not by demanding it, but through quiet action and unwavering integrity. He was always the first to lend a hand, often before anyone even asked.
Later in life, he found a beautiful new chapter with Shirley. They fell in love in their 60s, and their time together brought joy, companionship, and a richness to life that neither had imagined possible
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in passing by his loving wife of 33 years, Shirley M. Reed; son, Mathew J. Reed; siblings, Charlie Jr., Margie, Noreen, Tommy and Theresa.
He is survived by his children, Leo Reed, Jr. and wife Rebecca, Deirdra Phillips and husband Vance, Virginia Slaughter, Linda Riddle, Laura Shive and husband Nelson, Beth Slaughter, James Riddle and wife Ruth, Cara Oglesby and husband Randy; grandchildren, Ashley Eckley and husband Chris, Ashley Miller and husband Justin, David Luke Reed, Joshua Phillips, Brittany Pedroza and husband Emilio, Cale Phillips, Philip Shive, Amanda Calhoun and husband Lance, Jacob Shive, John Shive and wife Cassidy, Marianne Fowler and husband Mark, Elizabeth Vaughn and husband Jimmie, Carrie Shive, Khadeeja Shive, Russel Cloninger, Jessica Wilkerson, Leah Weems, Travis Riddle and wife Jessica, Colten Riddle and wife Brittany; great grandchildren, Alexa, Kaiden, Amelia, Gracie, CJ, Iteimah, Zaniyah, Roy, Emil, Laurence, Wyatt, Claire, Dylan, Canli, Ryett, Christos, and Oliver.
A visitation will be held from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm on Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at Carothers Funeral Home Stanley with the Celebration of Life Service beginning at 2:00 pm. A committal service will follow at Hillcrest Gardens Cemetery. A reception will be held at Leo’s home following interment.
Please visit www.carothersfuneralhomestanley.com to leave online condolences for Leo’s family.
