Deacon Otis Reed, Jr.

Otis Reed, Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2024, at Covenant Medical Center in his hometown of Saginaw, Michigan. He was born February 18, 1940, to the late Otis Reed, Sr. and Vera Gladys Reed.

Otis was a devoted member of Bethlehem Baptist Church, serving as Chairman of the Deacon Board, Sunday School Superintendent, and Men’s Chorus member. He retired from the Grey Iron Foundry after 43 years of service and was a member of U.A.W. Local #668. Grieving his loss are his loving wife of 62 years, Barbara Reed, their three children; Marilyn, Frank, and Marlena Reed, and one grandchild, Tyler Christian Word; one brother, Bobby (Alberta) Reed; sisters, Geraldine (Robert) Harrison, Sharon (David) McClain and Linda Reed.

Blessed with high energy and a curious mind, Otis lived life to the fullest. He was a proud member of the U.S. Marine Corps and a member of the American Legion. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, traveling, and caring for his home and lawn.

Otis was a dedicated father and grandfather who always put his children’s well-being ahead of his own. From driving a VW Beetle across the country for his oldest child to teaching his youngest to drive a manual transmission, he was there for his daughters. His only son, Frank, held a special place in his heart. They shared a love of sports, especially football, and spent many hours together fishing when Frank was a young man. Otis was thrilled to see his adult son be baptized at Bethlehem Baptist Church. In recent years, they remained in contact through frequent phone calls. Watching his grandson grow into adulthood was a joy for Otis.

Otis was predeceased by one sister, Katherine Levonne Reed, and four brothers, James (Mary Ellen), Leroy (Joan), Fred (Mary), and Leonard Reed.