J W Reed

J W Reed, born on December 30, 1931, in Lisbon, Louisiana, was the eighth of twelve children born to the late John Will and Alma Reed. He brought immense joy to his parents and family from the very beginning.

J W received his early education in the Lisbon Public Schools.

A man of deep faith, he confessed Christ at an early age and was a devoted member of the Episcopal church throughout his adult life. He united with Saint Phillips Episcopal and Saint George Episcopal before moving his membership to Saint Anne Episcopal in 2000, where he served faithfully for 25 years.

In Ruston, Louisiana, J W met the love of his life, the late Essie Reed. They united in Holy Matrimony in 1954 and together raised two daughters, Carol “Zoette” Reed and Thelma “Lela” Reed. J W cherished his time with Essie, enjoying walks in the park and mall, and traveling the world with his family until her passing in 2019.

In 1963, J W attended Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s address at the Music Fair Hall in Dallas and proudly marched alongside him in a local parade – a powerful memory he carried with pride. J W remained engaged in civic life, later becoming a supporter of the Barack Obama Administration, whose presidency he saw as a historic triumph for justice and equality.

J W dedicated 36 years of his career to Dallas Power & Lights, formerly known as TXU Electric, before his well-deserved retirement.

Love graced J W’s life once more when, in 2023, he married the air beneath his wings, Katrina Richard, whom he affectionately called his “Baby.” They shared a deep bond, spending quality time together and listening to music. J W always had a song in his heart and would sing to his Baby every night. "Glory, Glory Hallelujah" and "Precious Lord" were his favorite gospel hymns.

A pillar of strength and compassion, J W was the cornerstone of his family. He eagerly anticipated the Ike Reed family reunions serving on the committee with enthusiasm for many years. During the State Fair of Texas, he could be found proudly working at the Fletcher’s Corny Dog stand. In his younger years, he was an avid golfer, which he enjoyed during his spare time in his younger days. On Fridays, J W could often be found enjoying a game of Dominoes with his baby brother James and nephew Jamie.

J W also gave generously of his time to his community. He served on the Lincoln High School Alumni Committee and was active in several charitable organizations. J W was a talented home baker, most known for his rich and moist pound cakes.

Cherished Memories and Legacy

On July 6, 2025, J W received his wings and went home to be with the Lord, undoubtedly singing in the Heavenly Choir. He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Zoette; and his son, Elmer; his brothers, Cager and Amos; and his sisters, Ida, Cleo, Ardealure, Arealure, Frances, and Eula Mae.

J W was a pillar of strength within his family and leaves to cherish his memories his loving and devoted wife, Katrina Reed; three daughters, Lela Reed, Karen E. Davis, and Sharon Davis; a special son, Jeffrey (Karonda) Pope; a special granddaughter, Sherrell (Breland) Thomas; granddaughters Stephanie King and Lynette Parker, ten grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two brothers, John S. (Effie) Reed and James (Annie) Reed; one sister, Annie (George) Jones; one brother-in-law, Donald (Nelwyn) Richard; one sister-in-law, Annie Jean Gipson; his Godchildren, Steve Watson III, Patrick Traylor, and Tyler Jones; along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.