John H. Reed, son of Joe W. Reed and Grace Issacs Reed, passed away surrounded by the love of his family on Friday, December 19, 2025. He was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Emma Dean Sherfey Reed, his parents, his brother Lester Glenn Reed, and his sister Dorothy Reed Potter.
Those who remain to cherish his memory include his son, Tim Reed (Phyllis); grandsons Andy (Julie) and Mike (LeAnna); and great‑grandchildren Jordan, Owen, Brady, and Adelyn. He is also survived by his brother Bill Reed and his sister Margie Haas. Each of them carries a piece of his gentle spirit and the lessons he quietly taught through the way he lived.
John, known affectionately as “PawPaw,” was deeply loved by his family and many friends. He was humble, thoughtful, giving, and kind. A hard worker with a warm sense of humor, he had a way of making people feel welcome and valued.
John proudly served his country in the United States Navy, a commitment that reflected his strong character, sense of duty, and devotion to others.
A member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, John remained faithful even when he could no longer attend in person. He found joy in watching the livestream of Sunday School and church services and spent time each day reading his Bible, drawing strength and comfort from his faith. In his younger years, he served as a Sunday School teacher and Youth Leader at a church he attended in Indiana, pouring into the lives of young people with patience and sincerity.
John worked for many years as a welder at GATX in East Chicago, Indiana. Even after retirement, he never slowed down. He devoted his time to gardening, landscaping, and enjoying the outdoors. He loved being with his family and was always ready for a friendly conversation, whether with a neighbor or a stranger who quickly became a friend.
Funeral services will be held at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church on Tuesday at 2:00 p.m., with Dr. Danny Dodds officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to the Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Hill Project.
This wonderful dad and PawPaw will be deeply missed. See you later, PawPaw. We love you.
Pleasant Hill Baptist Church
Pleasant Hill Baptist Church
Pleasant Hill Baptist Church
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