On the morning of March 2, 2024, Jerome Howard Reed, known affectionately as Jerry, passed away at the age of 86, surrounded by the love of his two devoted sons.
Jerry was born on April 27, 1937, in Hoxie, Kansas, to Howard Charles Reed and Irene Bower. As the youngest of three children, Jerry's upbringing in the heart of the Midwest shaped his values of community, hard work, and compassion. In 1959, he met Clarene Leonard at Fort Hays State University (FHSU), and they had two sons, Steven, and Stanley Reed.
After his first marriage, he found companionship with Patricia Isbell, and they were married for 52 years. He is survived by Patricia and his sons Steven (Shelley) Reed and Stanley (Donna) Reed, grandchildren Kayla Hoffman, Courtney Reed, and Matthew Reed and three great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his siblings, Patricia Halstrom and Bert Reed.
A man of many roles, Jerry's life touched countless others. He was a devoted Christian, a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, mentor, athlete, coach, farmer, Lions Clubs International member, and dedicated lifetime educator.
Jerry spent the majority of his life in western Kansas. Following his graduation from FHSU, he had vast career in education that started with teaching high school industrial arts and coaching boys' football, baseball, and basketball and eventually becoming a high school superintendent. He retired in 2003 and co-located between Sun Lakes, AZ, and Hays, Kansas.
Jerry spent his final years surrounded by family in Colorado, residing at Sunrise at Orchard. The support and care he received during this time brought comfort to both Jerry and his loved ones.
A celebration of life for Jerry will be held on March 15, 2024, at 4:00 PM at Olinger Chapel Hill, located at 6601 S. Colorado Blvd, Centennial, CO.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Gideons International, reflecting Jerry's spirit of giving and community service.
https://www.gideons.org/donate
Jerome "Jerry" Reed will be laid to rest in the Hoxie Cemetery in Hoxie, Kansas on March 19, 2024 at 11:00 AM.