Daniel Edward Reed

Daniel Edward Reed obituary, Wiscasset, ME

Daniel Edward Reed

Daniel Reed Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Direct Cremation of Maine - Belfast on Jan. 13, 2026.
Daniel E. Reed, 84, of Wiscasset, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.

Danny was born in Wiscasset, Maine, on February 23, 1941, to Frank Reed and Bernice (Barnes) Reed. All who knew Danny remember his fun-loving, larger-than-life personality and his big, infectious laugh that could instantly brighten a room. He would do anything for his family and friends and was always ready to lend a helping hand.

Danny enjoyed many simple pleasures in life. He loved playing cribbage with friends and coworkers and hunting with his nephews. In his younger years, he especially cherished camping trips with his beloved wife, Mary. Above all, spending time with family was his greatest joy-whether playing Yahtzee with his father-in-law Junior, Mary, his son Doug, and his grandchildren, or taking long rides with his children and grandchildren while listening to music. Along the way, he shared plenty of "Dad" and "Papa" wisdom, along with lots of laughter.

Danny took great pride in his career at Bath Iron Works, where he worked as a crane operator for 45 years. During his long tenure, he received numerous service awards in recognition of his dedication and hard work.

Danny was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Bernice Reed; his siblings Bertha, Ruth, Virginia, Eugene, Earl, and Charlie; and his "favorite" cat, Patches.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Mary J. Reed of Wiscasset; his son Doug Reed and wife Alison of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida; his daughter Betsy Wildes of Boothbay Harbor; and his daughter T.J. Wildes and partner Jamie of Jackson, Maine. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren-Alexis, Nathaniel, Orion, Ciara, Brady, Caden, Keana, Arianna, and Corban-and his great-grandchildren Harper and Shawn, with another great-grandchild on the way. Danny also leaves behind many loving nieces and nephews, and his loyal big orange tabby cat, Baby.

A celebration of life for Danny will be held on Sunday, January 25, at 1:00 p.m. at the Wiscasset Parks & Recreation Senior Center Room. Memories and condolences may be shared on his tribute wall.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Daniel's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Daniel Reed's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Daniel Reed's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?