Tony Junior Reed
Tony J. Reed, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully in the early hours of Wednesday, January 28, 2026, surrounded by loved ones in the family home he built on Truman Hill Road in Hardy, Virginia.
Tony was born on September 13, 1943 in Roanoke, Virginia. He was preceded in death by his wife Louise, parents Sarah and Alfred Reed, brothers Zannie Reed and Garfield Reed, sisters Lantie Beckner, Ethelene Ray, Joyce Howell, and grandson Michael Keen. He is survived by his girlfriend of 21 years, Jean Truman, children Lori Fetridge (Martin), Mike Reed, Wayne Reed (David), and Chris Reed (Kim), his grandchildren Jessica Gunzinger (Brent), Maddie Meadows (Philip), Dr. Leanna Smithberger (Matthew), Miranda Tate (Dr. Dan), Donovan Everitt, and Keelie Everitt, and great-grandchildren Addalyn and Grace Meadows.
Growing up on his family farm, Tony learned the values of hard work, honesty, and family that remained central to his character throughout his life. As a young man, Tony helped his parents sell produce at the Roanoke market and worked at a dairy farm in Vinton and then began working in excavation and heavy equipment in the mid-1960s. His strong work ethic led him to form his own business, Tony Reed Excavating, in 1979 and he stayed in business until his retirement in 2010.
Throughout his life, Tony enjoyed sharing stories about his early life and the early days of his business to impart the value of perseverance to his children and grandchildren. He was a Ford man to the core, and he loved watching western shows and movies with his grandchildren, especially those featuring John Wayne, his personal hero. Never one to be idle, he was an avid card player and bowler, bowling three perfect games in his lifetime.
Tony was known for his quick wit and common sense, and he often reminded his family and friends to “keep your mind on what you’re doin’.” Those who visited his home were often treated to his famous meatloaf, which he continued making until his final days. In recent years, he could often be found in his workshop spending time and trading jokes with a close group of friends and neighbors.
Services will be held at Lotz Funeral Home in Vinton. Viewings will be held Thursday, February 5th from 2:00-4:00 and 6:00-8:00pm. The funeral will take place Friday, February 6th at 1:00pm, followed by interment in the Reed Family Cemetery in Hardy and a lunch at Franklin Memorial Baptist Church (3980 Truman Hill Rd, Hardy, VA 24101). In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Good Samaritan Hospice.
