Search by Name

Search by Name

Kathleen Reed Obituary

REED

KATHLEEN REED

Kathleen (Owen) Reed passed peacefully in her sleep on Sunday, December 10, 2023, surrounded by family. She was born on November 25, 1955 in Cheverly, MD, and is survived by her husband, John Reed (of 39 years); her three children, Shannon Reed, Cameron (Reed) Shields and Joseph Reed; and her two grandchildren, Aubrey Wiedel and Aiden Shields.



Kathleen, well known as Kathy, was a selfless, kind, loving and fiercely loyal mother, spouse and friend. As a dedicated member of the community, she served as Commissioner and later was inducted into the Hall of Fame for her volunteer work with the Western Howard County Softball programs.



She had many enjoyments in life including her family, friends, softball, bowling, reading, music and Coca Cola. Above all, she found great happiness bringing together those she held dear through her numerous celebrations. From July 4th to Christmas, New Year's Day and many birthdays, Kathy had a special gift for opening her heart and her home for all to feel welcome.



Kathy brought friendship, joy and a relentless drive to 'do right' to every encounter, including her lifelong career as a bookkeeper for the family business, and numerous positions held throughout her life â€"including at Clyde Dent carpet company, Jordan Kitt's Music, Shear Pleasure Salon and the Circus.



Kathy always lived by her own creed and rooted for the underdog. There was no challenge too big for her to overcome, and she never, ever quit. She fought the impossible fight and lived the impossible dream. She cared deeply for the ones who meant the most to her. And she left the world a better place. Her light will continue to bring peace to those close to her, as guardian angel.



The family is brokenhearted and would like to thank all those who played a role in her amazing life. Kathy did not wish to have a formal funeral service and asked that her loved ones instead commemorate her spirit by continuing a legacy of kindness.

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

Published by The Washington Post on Dec. 15, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Kathleen Reed

Not sure what to say?





Jessica Kinsley

December 21, 2023

I handled the insurance for her husband and son. She always talked about much she loved being at home to be there for her family and having her grandchildren around. I was sad the day she told me she was sick. I'm so sorry for your family's loss.

Genevieve Hess

December 14, 2023

Sending our love and condolences

Pam Wensel

December 14, 2023

Kathy was my best friend at High Point H.S. I was so lucky. I'm only sorry for all the years we failed to stay in touch. Life takes you down different paths. Kathy will always live on in my heart. My thoughts are with you Johnny.

Laura Soehl Crespo

December 14, 2023

I worked with Kathy at Shear Pleasure, when I was in college. She was the best. She was always laughing, running next door to the pizzeria to fill up her soda cup, and talking so proudly about her children. She taught me to never drive anywhere without cash on me, in case I got stranded - I always think of her and that advice before embarking on a long trip.

Larry Thompson

December 14, 2023

A special lady who cared for all the girls playing WHC Softball! Don´t make them like this wonderful person anymore. God Bless the family and thank you for sharing her with us. She made a real difference!

Darrin Stolba

December 14, 2023

Sad to hear this news. Kathy was friendly, selfless and a hall of fame volunteer. We are all better for having known her. Prayers to the family.

Lindsay Sappah

December 14, 2023

Mrs Kathy was a huge part of my childhood. Her oldest daughter, Shannon, and I met in elementary school and from then throughout high school, Mrs Kathy would be a mainstay in my life. From coaching our softball team, sidelines in cheer and driving us from practice to dinner and the sleepovers, Mrs Kathy always did it and with a smile. I can still hear her laugh as she chuckled at us from the front seat.

Lynne Ruckert

December 14, 2023

Kathy´s kindness to me in high school was very special. I was only a mere sophomore and she was a senior when she invited me to her home. We sat and listened to her extremely talented sister play the piano. It just blew me away how she knew every song I asked her to play. I could tell Kathy was very proud of her.It was a moment I will never forget.

Judy Tarter

December 14, 2023

My favorite memory is we were racing home from Ocean City after spending Memorial Day there. I think we were 17. We kept passing each other on route 50. Don´t know how neither of us got pulled over! We were laughing as we would pass each other. Kathy won. She had the faster car! RIP Kathy

Dottie (McKenna) Kozak

December 14, 2023

Kathy and I played sports together when we were members of the College Park Girls Club. She was a great athlete and a great friend. I'm so sorry for your loss.

william l copperthite

December 14, 2023

she always had a great smile and we had so much fum back in the day, i will miss her, god bless

Single Memorial Tree

With love to Cameron Shields

Planted Trees

Showing 1 - 12 of 12 results

Make a Donation
in Kathleen Reed's name

Memorial Events
for Kathleen Reed

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Kathleen's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
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
Resources to help you cope with loss
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
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Kathleen 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