William "Bill" Reed

William "Bill" Reed

February 6, 1933 - May 29, 2024

William (Bill) L. Reed, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, teacher, and coach, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2024, at home in Hamler, Ohio with his wife Jan and son Tracy at his side.  He was born on February 6, 1933, in Salyersville, Kentucky, to Loy and Peggy (Minix) Reed, the youngest of nine siblings.

Bill was a man of incredible kindness and gentle spirit, traits that shone through in every aspect of his life. He dedicated his life to serving others, both as a teacher and a coach. He began his journey in education after graduating from Eastern Kentucky University, where he went on to begin his career as school teacher in Salyersville, Kentucky, and later as a teacher and basketball coach in Ohio at the McClure, and Hamler schools. His passion for teaching and coaching touched the lives of many students and players who remember him fondly for his love and dedication.

In his younger years, Bill also served in the US Army as a Medic, showcasing his commitment to his country and fellow servicemen. Outside of work, he was an active member of various organizations and community groups, including First Baptist Church of Holgate, singing in the church choir and various nursing homes, the Northwesternaires Barbershop Chorus, and as a Boy Scout leader and Sunday School Teacher. His involvement in these organizations reflected his deep-rooted commitment to his community and faith. Bill was also nominated and awarded the honorable title of Kentucky Colonel by the governor of Kentucky designating him as a goodwill ambassador of his home state.

Bill had a wide range of interests and hobbies, from camping across the US and Canada and traveling through 49 out of 50 states, to square dancing with the Turkeyfoot Trotters, reading, and his love for poetry. Bill was particularly known for his ability to recite by memory "Old October" by James Whitcomb Riley annually, even well into his late 80's. A fervent University of Kentucky Wildcats Basketball fan, he enjoyed cheering on his favorite team with his family and friends. Bill found immense joy in spending time with his loved ones, cherishing every moment he had with them.

On January 23, 1961, Bill married the love of his life, Jan, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and happiness. Together, they raised two sons, Terry (Barb) Salyer and Tracy (Sally) Reed, and were blessed with four grandchildren, Laura (Kevin) Burns; Tyler (Loren) Salyer; Daniel Reed and Kira Reed and two great-grandchildren, Lana Salyer and Lynzie Salyer.

Bill was predeceased by his parents, seven sisters, Beulah Dunn; Gladys Spurlock; Bea Beatty; Edith Salyer; Rose Allen; Maude Miles; Jean Mann and one brother, James Reed.  He is survived by his loving wife, sons, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a community of friends and students whose lives he touched in profound ways.

Funeral services will be held at 12 Noon on Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at First Baptist Church, South Keyser Street, Holgate, Ohio with Rev. Irl Grundy and Rev. Charles Alley officiating.  Graveside services with military honors will follow at Marion Township Cemetery, Hamler.

Visitation will be from 3-8 p.m. on Monday, June 3, 2024 at Feehan-Rodenberger Funeral Home, Deshler and from 11-12 noon, Tuesday prior to the services at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations can be made to the First Baptist Church, Holgate or a charity of the donor’s choice.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all those friends, church members and neighbors, especially Donnie Carrizales, who supported and encouraged Bill throughout his illness, along with the staff of The Bridge Hospice Care and The Meadows of Leipsic.  Bill's legacy of love, kindness, and dedication will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him.  May he rest in peace.

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