Joseph Lee Reed

Joseph L. Reed Sr. transitioned from this life on February 11, 2026, in Mesquite, Texas. He was born on February 24, 1953, in Danville, Illinois, to Lorenzo Reed and Ora Mae Neal. He was the seventh of twelve children born to this union.

Joseph attended Cannon Elementary School and East Park Middle School in Danville, Illinois. Throughout his life, he was known as a hardworking and skilled man. He worked for many years as a cook at KFC and later served as a chef at Jumers Café in Urbana. In addition to his culinary work, Joseph took pride in construction and various handyman jobs, always willing to lend his hands to help others.

Joseph was united in holy matrimony to Shirley Ann Atkins Reed on August 10, 1990. She preceded him in death on February 3, 2015. He later married Thelma Hollins Reed, who also preceded him in death in 2023.

Joseph enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. His hobbies included fishing, playing chess, listening to old school and gospel music, playing spades and dominoes, and repairing cars or anything mechanical he could get his hands on. He was known for his ability to fix just about anything and for his love of fellowship with family and friends.

In 2018, Joseph was ordained as a Deacon at Straight Street Baptist Church in Dallas under the leadership of Pastor Quitman Dilworth. He faithfully served and remained devoted to his church family.

Those who will forever cherish his memory include his siblings: Juanita Mosby, James Reed, Gene Reed, Katie Davis, Edward (Dorthea) Reed, Viola Bankhead, Curtis (Eva) Reed, David Reed, Debra Cummings, Don Reed, Rose Reed, Della Newsome, Gloria Newsome, and Laverne Newsome.

Remaining to honor his legacy are his three sons: Bennet (Kim) Eiremann of Urbana, Michael Butler of Champaign, and Joseph Reed Jr. of Champaign; and his three daughters: Laguanna Reed of California, Joseeka (Luke) Reed of Texas, and Tracey Atkins of Atlanta, Georgia.

His memory will continue to live through sixteen grandchildren whom he adored: Marcus, Carloshia, Tianna, Michelle, Haneef, Jaylen, JaZae, Jayla, JuLani, Josiah, Taraji, Tavaris, Sariah, Damien, Takeya, Michael, and Xahlani; nine great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. He will also be deeply missed by his loving and supportive church family of Dallas Straight Street and his three devoted best friends: Semeko Ford, Cedric Bell, and Debra Waters.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Christopher Atkins; his daughters, Tushanne and Josheeka; his grandson, Bennet Jr.; his brothers-in-law Roy Cummings Sr., James Mosby, Oliver Davis Sr., and Cleavon Bankhead Sr.; and his sisters-in-law Bessie Reed and Pearl Reed.

Joseph will be remembered for his servant’s heart, his willingness to help anyone in need, his devotion to his family, and his steadfast faith. His legacy of love, resilience, and dedication will live on through all who knew and loved him.

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