Charles Edward Reed was born in Mullin, Texas on January 6, 1928. God called him to heaven on November 16, 2025, at the age of 97. He is preceded in death by his mother, Jessie Whitley Reed, father, Larkin Taylor Reed, six sisters – Ollie, Eva, Auda, Ida, Helen, and Dena – and three brothers – James, Pete, and Whit.
Charles is survived by his wife of 66 years, Helen Coplen Reed, daughter, Jena Reed Reece and husband Don, daughter, Judy Reed Sandlin and husband Michael, and son Michael Reed and wife Nancy. Papa is also survived by his loving grandchildren, Caitlin Reece Atkins and husband Dylan, Alexander Reece, Hunter Reece and wife Madeline, Cameron Reed, and Gamble Reed and three great-grandsons, Jack Henry Reece, Jennings Reed Atkins, and Hayes William Reece.
Charles graduated from high school in 1946 and worked in the oil fields with his brothers and others across Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama. In 1952 he was drafted into the US Army where he served during the Korean War. After his Honorable Discharge, Charles applied to and was accepted into the Petroleum Engineering degree program at the University of Texas in Austin.
Our dad’s brother, Whit, and his wife, Martha (Boo) Reed, introduced our parents just after his graduation from the University of Texas. It must have been love at first sight because they married shortly thereafter and moved to Minden, Louisiana, where they lived until they retired. Our parents know they were privileged to raise their three children in Minden. Our family was very active at the First Baptist Church, Glenbrook School, and Minden High School. After leaving Minden, Helen and Charlie enjoyed six amazing years wandering the US in their motor home but always call Minden home.
The family appreciates the support of family and friends from Texas, Louisiana, and across the US who have strengthened us over the past difficult years. We are grateful for you and your love more than our words can express. Thank you