Richard Dale Reed, age 68, passed away peacefully Wednesday, Jan. 14, at his home, surrounded by family and friends who loved him dearly. Richard was born on March 22, 1957, in Michigan City, Indiana, to James and Artie Reed. A tall man of few words, Richard’s quiet strength spoke louder than anything he could have said. He was a die-hard Tennessee Volunteers fan and a devoted Bill Elliott race fan, passions he followed faithfully throughout his life. Richard dedicated 36 years of loyal service to Nissan North America in Smyrna, where he worked as a Supervisor. He was also proud to have served his country in the United States Army. He was a beloved son, brother, dad, stepdad, grandfather, uncle, and a true friend to many. His steady presence, work ethic, and love for his family will be remembered always. He will be missed tremendously by all who knew him. Richard is survived by his sons, Travis (Megan) Reed of Manchester, Spencer Reed (Samantha) of Murfreesboro, and David Lynn of Key West, Florida; his grandchildren: Trenton (Terri) Reed, Hope Reed, Grayson, Kaydance, Braylen, Koen, and Parker Daniel and his great-granddaughter, Sophia Reed, born January 9, 2026,whom he lovingly waited to meet. He is also survived by his sister, Donna Reed of Manchester; his brother, David (Connie) Reed of Manchester; and his brother-in-law, Doyle Sherrill of Manchester. Also surviving are his dear friend Becky Reed and his stepdaughters, Tina (Michael) Daniel, Callie (Kyle) Millaway, and Amy (Chris) Slater. Richard is further survived by many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly: Katy (Dan) Bess, Alex Wells, Avery Kate, Ansley, Chris (Gina) Sherrill, Albany, Amelia, Alyssa, Todd (Sonya) Sherrill, Haley Koren, Kyra, Eric, Clint Reed, Catelyn, Kylie Millaway, Zach Slater, and Zane Slater. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Artie Reed; Enos and Avis Reed; Jim and Kate Jones; and his sister, Diane Sherrill. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Adoration Hospice and Middle Tennessee Respiratory for their compassionate care and dedicated service during this time. Richard Dale Reed leaves behind a legacy of service, dedication, and quiet love for his family and friends. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him. Visitation was held Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026, from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Central Funeral Home in Manchester. Funeral services were held Sunday, Jan. 18, at 2 p.m. in the chapel of Central Funeral Home with Bro. Doyle Sherrill officiating. Burial followed at New Hope Baptist Cemetery in Coffee County. Those serving as active pallbearers include: Dan Bess, Chris Sherrill, Todd Sherrill, Kyle Millaway, Michael Daniel, and Jim Stukla. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital and Coffee County Animal Control.

Central Funeral Home is honored to serve the Reed family, 931-723-7774, centralfuneralhome.com