Gerald "Jerry" Reed

Gerald Lee Reed, son of the late Chester and Hazel (Taylor) Reed, was born June 14, 1944, in Mountain Grove, Missouri. Jerry passed away peacefully in his sleep the morning of July 21, 2022 at the age of 78 years.

Jerry grew up in Mountain Grove with his five siblings; the baby of the family, he always loved and greatly admired them all. Jerry graduated from Mountain Grove High School in 1962 then later fell in love with Cecelia Davis, whom he married on July 21, 1963. Born to this union were daughters Jerri-Lynn September of 1964 and Jackie Kay July of 1966.

Jerry and Cecelia set up their home in Springfield, Missouri where Jerry worked at the Paul Mueller Company. After retiring from Paul Mueller, Jerry continued his drive for hard work as an over-the-road truck driver for Prime, Inc., a job he enjoyed greatly and devoted his life to. After retiring from Prime, Inc. Jerry returned to his homestead, continuing over-the-road driving which then transitioned to his most-loved work which was managing cattle for his nephew Bob Reed.

Besides his drive and respect for hard work, Jerry enjoyed sports and socializing with friends and family. A fan of sports, Jerry spent time coaching Mighty Mites football and Little League baseball in Springfield, Missouri. Friday Night Lights in Mountain Grove was also a favorite and passionate pastime, as well as stock car racing, and a love for motorcycles.

Jerry was a generous man who helped many during his life on earth. A kind heart and empathy for those in need. Jerry was an active Mason and a Shriner for several years. His devotion to these organizations was his most important work on earth.

A believer in his Savior Jesus Christ, Jerry was baptized at the Willow Springs Church of Christ, fully turning his life over to God.

Besides his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by two sisters, Shirley Landon and Betty Welch, two brothers, Charles Reed and Lyle Reed, and two half-brothers, Chester Phillips and Roy Hale.

Jerry is survived by his daughter, Jackie King and her husband, Joseph King, of Edwardsville, Illinois and daughter, Jerri-Lynn and her partner, Sheila Decker, of Springfield, Missouri; one sister, Alice Christensen and her husband, Eric Christensen, of Ozark, Missouri; many beloved nieces, his beloved nephew; extended family; and his many friends and neighbors who will miss him dearly.

Memorial services for Jerry Reed will be held Saturday, August 13, 2022, at 10:30 AM at Willow Springs Church of Christ, Willow Springs, Missouri, with Andrew Bryan officiating. Song selections are “Morning Has Broken” and “This World Is Not My Home” led by Philip Chafin. The family would like to invite all who attend to a meal following the memorial service at the church.