Roger REED

Roger Reed, a man defined by his love for family, his faith, history, and a good Cougar football game, passed away peacefully on August 2nd, 2025, at the age of 86. He was surrounded by loved ones in his final moments.

Donald Roger Reed was born on February 10th, 1939, in Portland, Oregon, to Geraldine and Donald Reed. The oldest brother to Sam and Janet, Roger was the responsible and more serious child, but had a temper, which he blamed on his red hair. At 9, his family moved to Wenatchee, Washington. He spent his days playing sports and performing in a singing trio. He cherished summers with cousins at the family cabin on Lake Wenatchee and at YMCA camp, where he developed his first connection with God and a tolerance for swimming in frigid water. Roger's interest in politics and law began early, inspired by his grandfather, an attorney and state legislator. As a teen, he served as the chairman for "Juniors for Ike and Dick."

The family relocated to Spokane during Roger's junior year. Although at first devastated, it ultimately proved pivotal, as the rigorous academic environment of Lewis and Clark High School prepared him for university life. Roger graduated from Lewis & Clark High School in 1957 and headed to Washington State University, where he engaged in campus politics and developed lifelong friends as a member of Kappa Sigma, graduating with a B.A. in political science in 1961. He later received his law degree from the University of Washington. Roger built a successful career in law and public service, serving as a Spokane Deputy Prosecuting Attorney and eventually becoming the chief of the Eastern Washington Attorney General's office. In 1976, he entered private practice, co-founding the firm Reed & Giesa. Roger was known to be kind and fair, befriending his staff, and even lawyers he heatedly opposed in court. Roger never retired.

Roger married Marilyn McConaghy in 1961, and they raised their kids in Spokane before divorcing in 1989. In 1991, he married Yvonna (Vonnie) Caston, and they enjoyed 34 years together in Spokane, where they raised Vonnie's son, Matt.

Roger possessed an enthusiasm nearing obsession with WSU athletics, holding season tickets for decades and proudly wearing Cougar gear in all seasons. He was a true history buff, with a particular interest in the Civil War and World War II, and his extensive book collection was a testament to his thirst for knowledge. A faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he found joy in serving his community through nearly 20 years of interfaith work.

Roger loved Elvis, the newspaper, Jackie Robinson, rhubarb, peanut butter on pancakes, and playing HORSE in his pool. He never turned down the opportunity for good ice cream or good conversation. Those who knew him will miss his kindness, steadfast faith, and his voice: whether through his humorous storytelling, wise counsel, singing, his Donald Duck impression, or regular check-in calls. His family describes him as devoted, guileless, enthusiastic, and hard-working, with a sardonic wit.

Above all, Roger was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Yvonna (Vonnie) Reed, and her son, Matthew White; his children, Tara McKee (Paul), Susan Scott (Jonathan), Scott Reed (Courtney), and Jonathan Reed (Ashley); 11 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; and his brother, Sam Reed. He was preceded in death by his sister, Janet Huntley.

The memorial service will be held at 11 am, Saturday, August 30th, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1620 E. 29th Ave., Spokane.