He was born on May 29, 1948, in Greenup, Kentucky, the son of the late Florence (Madden) and Jeff Lawhun. Known as “Shorty” by his co-workers, he retired from General Motors after 39 years of service, last working in welder maintenance. Reed was a member of the UAW Local #549 and enjoyed visiting with his former co-workers even after retirement. He was kind, personable, and friendly and never met a stranger in his life. In September 1967, he married Mary Newport and they began a wonderful life. Reed enjoyed a good thrift shop and shopping with his wife. He dearly loved his children and, especially, his grandchildren, who brought so much joy to his life. The memories created with Reed will be treasured for a lifetime. The family finds great comfort in knowing Reed is now resting in the arms of the Lord in Heaven.
Reed is survived by his wife of 59 years, Mary Lawhun; three children, Reed Lawhun Jr., Mike (Vicki) Lawhun, and Laura Lawhun; six grandchildren, Katelyn Lawhun, Kristina Lawhun, Kara Lawhun, Erica (Nick) Kanuch, Austin Lawhun, and Ja`Leesa Brown; three great-grandchildren, Roman, Jackson, and Calahan; two sisters, Susie Duncan and Sandra Williams; and many cherished family members.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Diana Lawhun; and an infant brother.
The family will receive friends from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at Wappner Funeral Directors and Crematory-Ontario, 100 S. Lexington-Springmill Road. The funeral service will immediately follow at 12:00 pm with Pastor Matthew Pond officiating. He will be laid to rest in Crawford County Memory Gardens in a private ceremony.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in care of the family.
