James Reed

James Lawrence “Buddy” Reed, Jr., age 89, of 1116 W. Jackson Street, Covington, Virginia went to his heavenly home on Friday, October 6, 2023 at LewisGale Hospital-Alleghany.

He was born on May 23, 1934 in Covington, Virginia to the late James Lawrence Reed, Sr., and Darlene McGuire Reed. He was a retired engineer foreman for Alleghany Regional Hospital and a member of Iron Gate Community Church. He was skilled in carpentry and helped with many projects in the area. He was a dedicated and loving husband, father, pawpaw, brother and friend.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sons, Dennis Reed and Roger Reed; a grandson, Ronnie Reed, Jr.; a brother, Gary Reed; and two sisters, Geneva Boguess and Mildred McMullen.

He is survived by his devoted wife, which cared for him these past years as he suffered with lung disease, Loretta Kelley Reed; a daughter, Cindy Sheppard and husband, Roy; two sons, Steve Reed and wife, Vicky all of Covington and Ron Reed and MariAnne Trainer of Pennsylvania; a sister, Judy Brown and husband, Wesley of Covington; nine grandchildren, Andrea Gordon, Kayla Hanshew, Hannah Sheppard, Allison Sheppard, Chase Reed, Sarah Reed, Tiffany King, April Boguess and Katie Reed; 18 great grandchildren; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In keeping with his wishes, his body has been cremated. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 14, 2023 at 2:00PM in the Chapel of Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge with Reverend Edith Snedegar officiating. His cremated remains will be buried at Cedar Hill Cemetery, Covington privately. The family will receive friends from 1:00PM until time of service at Nicely Funeral Home and also at the residence of 1116 W. Jackson Street, Covington, Virginia 24426.