James "Jim" Lee Reed

James “Jim” L. Reed, 92, of Owensboro passed away Monday, April 8, 2024, at his residence with his family by his side. The Bedford, Indiana native was born October 22, 1931, as one of sixteen children to the late Perry Isaac Reed and Mary Belle Barnett Reed. Jim attended Tech High in Owensboro and later earned his G.E.D. He retired from the City of Owensboro Maintenance Department in 1993 after 30 years. Jim was a “Jack of all trades” who enjoyed carpentry, painting furniture, woodworking, and refurbishing and customizing old cars and trucks. His garage was his happy place. Some of his projects included a 1936 Ford coupe, several Ford Mustangs, and pickups. Jim was a visionary and a planner. He was a long-standing member of Walnut Memorial Baptist Church. 

In addition to his parents, Jim also was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Joyce, in 2017; nine siblings who died in infancy and two other brothers, Bobby and Joseph Eugene Reed. 

Those left to cherish his memory include his daughter, Michelle Reed-Jarboe (Pete) of Owensboro; siblings, Pat Robbins (Wayne) of Bowling Green, Jerry Reed (Sandra), Michael Reed (Velma) both of Owensboro, and Gary Reed (Penny) of Dugger, Indiana; many nieces and nephews; faithful caregiver, Allyson Bowlds; his constant companion, Casey the cat. 

The family would like to express deep appreciation to Care Tenders and Hospice and Palliative Care of W. Kentucky. 

The funeral will be at 4:00 pm Friday, April 12 at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory with visitation from 2:00 pm until the time of service. A private burial will be in Smith-Ratliff Cemetery in McLean County. 

Condolences and memories for Jim’s family may be left at www.glenncares.com.