Reed has been involved in the creative process as both an artist and a commercial advertiser for more than 60 years. After earning a bachelor’s degree in fine arts, Reed went into a career in advertising, first in Kansas City and then in Dallas. Ultimately, Reed opened his own advertising agency, which won many prestigious awards including The New York Art Directors Gold Medal. His talent and experience led him to a leadership role as the president of the Dallas Society of Visual Communications and eventually brought him to Austin as a senior lecturer in the advertising department at the University of Texas. Over 1,500 students were taught by Reed in 13 years.
Reed began his work as an artist in 1986 when his wife suggested that he create a portrait of her beloved schnauzers. Since that time, Reed has rendered more than 3,000 personal pet portraits. His subjects have included the famous White House dogs, Millie Bush (commissioned for President George H.W. Bush) and Millie’s daughter, Spot (a gift from Laura Bush to then Governor George W. Bush).
Reed’s generosity and talent has raised thousands of dollars for the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, animal rescue and various other pet charities.
Reed is survived by his wife Candy, son, Jay Temple Reed, daughters Robin Sue Reed and Cindi Lynn Reed, six grandchildren, Wesley Ryan Black, Austin Edward Bewley, Bryce Michael Bewley, Meridian Holly Reed, Cierra Joann Reed, and Callaway Temple Reed. Jack was a devoted family man and never met a stranger.
Services will be held Saturday, December 3, 2022 at 11:00 am at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home, 411 Ranch Road 620 South, Lakeway, Tx.
