Ernest Reed Obituary
June 12, 1947 – February 1, 2026
Ernest P. Reed, Jr. Age 78 of Woodhaven.
Beloved husband of Diane. Loving father of Heather Reed, Scott Reed and Steven Reed. Dearest grandfather of Anthony Reed and Ethan Reed. Dear brother of Debra (James) Mangiapane.
Memorial contributions are appreciated to VFW Miller-Straun Post 9363, 25570 Telegraph Rd, Flat Rock, MI 48134.
Family Tribute ~
Ernest Paul Reed Jr., a longtime resident of Woodhaven, Michigan, passed away on February 1, 2026, at the age of 78. He was born on June 12, 1947.
Ernest proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. His military service reflected his deep sense of duty, strength, and commitment-qualities he carried with him throughout his life.
Following his service, Ernest dedicated 38 years of hard work to Frito-Lay, where he was a loyal and dedicated employee until his retirement in 2007. He enjoyed travelling, golf, volunteering at church, and was a past Commander and volunteer at his VFW.
Ernest was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother. He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Diane Reed; his children, Heather Reed, Scott Reed, and Steven Reed; his grandchildren, Anthony Reed and Ethan Reed; and his sister, Debra (James) Mangiapane.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Russel Reed, and his sister, Sharon Reed.
Ernest will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, and will be remembered for a life defined by service, hard work, and love for his family.
Visitation will be held on February 12 from noon to 3:00 p.m. at Molnar Funeral Home in Brownstown, Michigan, with the service beginning at 3:00 p.m.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Joyce Butcko
March 4, 2026
We are so saddened to see this. We have missed you at Our Lady Of The Woods. We send our prayers for you and your family.Joyce Butcko and Dawn Dick
Mike &Marion Zborowski
February 8, 2026
We worked with Ernie in the Shipping Department R.I.P. and prayers for the family
Jim and Debbie Mangiapane
February 7, 2026
Big E, Big E, Big E
Thank you for being such a wonderful and supportive brother and brother-in-law. We will forever cherish the memories and good times that we shared. Boating, golfing, our love of Maine, and all the fun and laughter.
Until we meet again, this is Jennica. Over and Out.
Our hearts and love go out to Diane, Heather, Scott, and Steven, Anthony, and Ethan.
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Margie Arion
February 7, 2026
Ernie was always a genuine, loving individual. Led with compassion and courage which is sometimes hard to do. Ernie was respected by so many at Frito Lay as a professional and friend. I worked with him in Mid America Sales and I always could count on Ernie for honesty, integrity and a laugh!! Ernie will be truly missed. Deepest sympathy to his family. Pray for strength. Margie (MJ)
Dan, Donna and Danette Koszewski
February 6, 2026
Our deepest sympathies to you, Heather, Scott, Steve and your grandsons. Ernie fought the good fight and is now at peace and in the arms of the angels. We will always have the memories of your trips to Naples and our breakfasts and dinners out. Good times, good memories and good friends. Semper Fi Ernie. May you rest in peace. Hugs to Diane and family.
Ed Gabos
February 6, 2026
I was very sorry to hear about the passing of my old friend, Ernie P Reed. We worked closely together many years ago, and I always remembered him with great respect and friendship. Some of my best memories are the walleye fishing trips we took together along with Bernie Baert. Good conversations, plenty of laughs and the kind of days you don´t forget.
Although life took us in different directions after I moved away, I have often thought of those times and the friendship we shared. Hearing of his passing brings back fond memories and reminds me what a good man he was.
My sincere condolences to Diane, Heather and all who knew and loved him. He will be remembered warmly and missed. Remembered always, Ed
Rick and Nancy
February 6, 2026
RIP Ernie. You will be missed by many people.
Carol Abadie
February 6, 2026
Ernie and I shared a million laughs over the years that we spent at Frito Lay. He was my supervisor. I remember this one thing that makes me smile to this day Ernie would have to do a reconciliation between Production and Shipping we always could tell if it went well or didn't go well because when he came back if his ears were beat red that meant stay away! It didn't go well He will be so ever missed prayers and ((hugs)) to You Diane and family May he rest in eternal peace
Lloyd Lipska
February 5, 2026
My deepest sympathy to the Reed family. I worked with Ernie in the Frito plant. He as th PC manager, I as the QA manager. I always knew you always could depend on Ernie. If he said he was going to do something, it would be done.
Sadly all those years we worked together we never knew each of us had done our time in Vietnam. Those days you were not very open about your service in Vietnam. It was many teas afterwards I learned of his service to our great country.
Delphine (Dee) Hlushchenko
February 5, 2026
SEMPER FI, ERNIE!!!
Showing 1 - 12 of 12 results
23700 West Road, Brownstown, MI 48183
Make a Donation
in Ernest Reed's name
People and places connected with Ernest
Recent Obituaries
How to support Ernest's loved ones
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
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
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 moreWays to honor Ernest 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
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
