CMSgt (Ret) Richard W. Reed

CMSgt (Ret.) Richard W. Reed, age 77, of Niceville, FL, passed away on March 22, 2026. He was born March 23, 1948, in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, to Pauline Elizabeth Reed and Levi William Reed.

Richard graduated from Shippensburg Area Senior High School and entered the United States Air Force in June 1966. He proudly served his country for 30 years, retiring as Chief Master Sergeant, Aircraft Chief Enlisted Manager. His distinguished career included service during the Vietnam and Gulf Wars.

Richard loved being on the golf course, riding his bike, working in his yard, and spending time with his family — especially his grandchildren. He also had a passion for fast cars, including his 1955 Chevy, 1966 Mustang, 1996 Mustang Cobra, 2001 C5 Corvette, and 2020 Mustang GT.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Pauline Reed; his father, Levi Reed; and his brother, Gerald Reed.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Karen Reed; his children, Scott Reed and spouse Charlotte Reed, Michelle Drake and spouse Berry Drake, and Peter Reed and spouse Stacey Reed. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Ryan Montgomery, Alexia Hinds, Chandler Drake, Rece Hinds, Brittany Reed, Ashley Pangle, and Taylor Krothe; and his great-grandchildren, Carson Calvin, Oliver Simonton, Bexlee Montgomery, Laken Pangle, and Everett Anderson.

He is further survived by his siblings, Peggy Crouse and spouse Roy Crouse, Robert Reed and spouse Paula Reed, and Wendy Hammaker and spouse Todd Hammaker.

A Celebration of Life will be held Tuesday, April 7, 2026, from 1:00 PM until his graveside services at 2:00 PM at Heritage Gardens Cemetery with Pastor Kevin Coberly officiating.  Flowers are welcome, or donations may be made in his memory to the Wounded Warrior Project located below.  

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