Patricia Dale Parker Reed

1939 - 2018

Patricia Dale Parker Reed, 78, of Placerville, passed away at her home, surrounded by her family. Patricia was born in Dinuba, California to parents Amos and (Hattie) Faye Parker. Patricia was a writer and an activist most of her life. She briefly studied journalism at CSU Fresno, and as the first woman cub reporter for the Fresno Bee, she interviewed Richard Nixon during his presidential campaign. Patricia also studied with the great poet, Philip Levine, and his influence on her was profound: she continued to write poetry for years. Patricia finished her Masters in English in 1986 at California State University, Sacramento. She was Director of the Writing Center and Professor of English at American River College from 1987 to her retirement in 1998. In 1992, she received from CSU Sacramento a certificate in recognition of Significant Achievement and Dedicated Service to her profession. And in 1993, Patricia founded the Northern California Writing Centers Association. After retirement, Patricia and Franklin started an antiques business, Aunt Hattie's Attic, in Georgetown, CA. Her family remembers Patricia as a creative genius and serious activist who had a sharp wit and a robust appreciation for fun. One of her favorite stories was of being pulled up on stage to dance with Little Richard at a concert. She wrote songs and plays for Sunday school, made needlepoint and embroidery decorations, and could make a delicious dinner out of whatever was in the refrigerator. Patricia is survived by her husband, Franklin O. Reed; three children, son Michael Ross Reed, daughters Courtney Jane and Shannon Lee Reed; daughter-in-law Cheryl Conley and son-in-law Richard Peterson; and three grandchildren, Cameron Weeks, Conor Moore, and Charlie Reed. Patricia was preceded in death by her parents. A Celebration of Life is scheduled for July 6, 2018 at 11 am, at St. Mark's United Methodist Church, 2391 St. Marks Way, Sacramento, CA 95864, with a reception to follow. You are invited to share your thoughts and fond memories with the family at: chapelofthepinesfuneral.com