Thomas Reed Jr.

Thomas Reed, Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2024, at the Arizona State Veterans Home in Phoenix, AZ. Born on April 10, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, to Tom and Theora Reed, Thomas was the third of eight children. He was raised in Gary, Indiana, where he excelled in basketball and baseball at Gary Roosevelt High School, graduating in 1960.

Thomas's journey of service began when he joined the Air Force in 1960. His distinguished military career took him to various locations, including Lackland AFB in Texas, Ramey AFB in Puerto Rico, Grissom AFB in Indiana, Ramstein AFB in Germany, Castle AFB and Presidio Monterey in California, Yokota AFB in Japan, and Treasure Island in San Francisco, California. He retired in 1980 after 20 years of dedicated service, having achieved numerous accolades, including winning an Air Force basketball championship while stationed at Ramstein and becoming fluent in Japanese before his assignment to Yokota.

In 1964, Thomas married his high school sweetheart, Laura Emma Warren. Their love story spanned 58 years until Laura's passing in 2018. Together, they raised two wonderful children, Joyce and Thom. Thomas was a devoted family man who always made others feel valued and included. His home was a place of warmth and acceptance, where everyone felt welcome.

Thomas's family fondly remembers his love for hosting gatherings, especially around the Super Bowl, where he would make his famous dynamite chili. He was also known for his exceptional ribs and tacos, which were a hit at every family event. His grandson Noah recalls how Thomas always made him feel at home, a sentiment shared by many who knew him. Thomas had a unique ability to remember people's names, even recognizing them by their voices after he lost his sight, making everyone feel special and valued.

After retiring from the Air Force, Thomas worked as an investigator for General Telephone Electric Company (now Verizon) and later at Mitsubishi Motor Manufacturing of America in the Equal Opportunity Programs department. Thomas loved to serve his community. He was a founding officer of Pony League Baseball in Bloomington, Illinois, and actively participated in the University High School booster club.

Thomas's faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was ordained a deacon at Mt. Moriah Christian Church, where he led the "More Mature Members of Mount Moriah" ministry with Laura and participated in the men's choir and regular choir. His resilience, strength, and unwavering faith were evident throughout his life, even as he faced challenges such as losing his sight. His brother Lavon idolized him, considering Thomas his mentor and best friend, while his niece Ja’neen cherished their monthly conversations and his calm, listening ear.

Thomas is remembered for his eclectic taste in music, a passion he shared with his daughter Joyce. His positive outlook and ability to stay strong through life's challenges left a lasting impression on his family and friends. His sister Paula reflects on his unwavering faith and positive attitude, even in the face of trials, as a testament to the kind of person he was.

Thomas is preceded in death by his wife Laura, his parents Tom and Theora, and his brothers Alfred, Arvis, and Fred. He leaves behind his brothers Lavon (Minietta) Reed and Elbert (Terri) Reed, sisters Gwendolyn Adams and Paula Mauzy, daughter Joyce (Demetrius) Tate, son Thom (Lisa) Reed, and grandchildren Noah (Spencer), Sarah, Jessica, Faith, and Emma Reed.

A celebration of Thomas's life will be held on Friday, January 10, 2025, at 11:00 AM at East Lawn Funeral Home, 1102 Airport Rd, Bloomington, IL 61704, with a viewing at 9:00 AM. Services will be streamed online. Burial will follow at East Lawn Memorial Gardens.

Thomas Reed, Jr. will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to inspire all who knew him.