James Reed

In Loving Memory of James Henry Reed

October 12, 1955 – November 9, 2026

James Henry Reed, age 71, lovingly known as “Poppy” to his family and friends, of Owingsville, Kentucky, passed away Monday evening, November 9, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born October 12, 1955, James was the son of the late Paul and Martha Reed.

James was a devoted husband, loving father, proud Poppy, brother, and friend to many. He was a hardworking man who enjoyed life and treasured the people who were part of it.

Throughout his life, James wore many hats. He was a farmer, a radio disc jockey, and a rural mail carrier for the United States Postal Service. Whether working on the farm, delivering mail, or spending time with family, James made many friendships and lasting memories along the way.

James had a special gift for making people feel welcome. He may have met a stranger, but only once. After that, you were family. He never seemed to meet someone he couldn't strike up a conversation with, and his friendly personality, warm heart, and sense of humor left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

One of his favorite sayings, no matter how he was feeling, was “I'm tougher than Woodpecker Lips!” Even during his most difficult days, those words reflected his determination, strength, and unmistakable sense of humor. It was more than just a saying; it became a part of who he was. Those simple words will forever hold a special place in the hearts of his family, bringing both smiles and precious memories of the man they loved so dearly.

One of the greatest joys of James's life was serving the Lord through his church, Oakley First Church of God. For approximately 18 years, James faithfully taught the Adult Sunday School class, a responsibility he truly loved. One of the highlights of his week was studying God's Word, preparing his Sunday School lesson, and finding just the right joke to share at the end of class. He believed that learning about the Lord could also be filled with laughter and fellowship. His dedication to teaching continued until his declining health made it too difficult for him to stand for extended periods. Although he could no longer stand before his class, the lessons he taught, the laughter he shared, and the love he had for his church family will never be forgotten.

Above all, James loved his family. He shared his life with his loving wife, Marsha Lenora Reed, whom he married on December 16, 2006. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

James was especially proud of his children, grandchildren, and sisters. He shared such a close bond with his brothers-in-law that he considered them his own brothers. To his family, he was affectionately known as “Poppy,” a name that will forever bring loving memories and smiles to those who knew him best.

He is survived by his loving wife, Marsha Lenora Reed; his children, Mark Ledford Reed (Krystal) of Owingsville, Kentucky, Ashley Dawn Reed of Owingsville, Kentucky, Andrea Dan’l Harvey (Bret) of Calabash, North Carolina, Brooklyn Dan’l Reed of Owingsville, Kentucky, and Jaxon Blake Reed of Owingsville, Kentucky; his grandchildren, Christian Davis Ritchie, James Colton Reed, and Laney Breann Harvey; two sisters, Lena Fultz (Roy) and Rita Cummins (Rusty); and Gary Sorrell. He also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, Paul and Martha Reed, James was preceded in death by his stepfather, Floyd Sorrell, and Edward “Doodle” Sorrell.

James faced many challenges throughout the final years of his life, including a courageous battle with lymphoma. Through it all, he was surrounded by the love, prayers, and support of his family, friends, and church community. Even on his hardest days, his determination and that familiar saying, “I'm tougher than Woodpecker Lips,” reminded everyone of his fighting spirit.

Although his passing leaves an emptiness in the hearts of those who loved him, the memories he created and the love he shared will never be forgotten.

James will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his faith in God, his years of hard work, the friendships he made, the Sunday School lessons he so faithfully prepared, the jokes he loved to tell, and the special place he held in the hearts of those who called him Poppy.

Poppy, you fought a hard fight, and now your earthly journey is complete. You showed us what it meant to be strong, to love others, to have faith, and to find a reason to smile even on the hardest days. We will carry your love, your laughter, and your unforgettable words in our hearts until that glorious day when we meet again on the other side.

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7 (KJV)

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 13, 2026, from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Owingsville First Church of God in Owingsville, Kentucky.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Owingsville First Church of God, with Bro. Randy Hawkins officiating.

During the service, one of James's many favorite gospel songs, “Unclouded Day,” will be sung by his cousin, Gerald Dyer, and Gerald's wife, Alice Dyer.

Burial will follow at Longview Cemetery in Bethel, Kentucky.

Pallbearers will include Christian Ritchie, James Colton Reed, Keith Fetters, Cameron Hall, Roy Yoder, Sam Miller, Danny Shetler, and Mose Schlabach.

Honorary pallbearers will be Roy Fultz, Rusty Cummins, Joe Shetler, Eddie Moore, Daryl Harmon, Danny Pollitt, Larry Ramey, Michael Sword, Jonathan Norris, Jamie Blackwell, Tyler Trahan and Dillian Carroll.

The Michael R. Gray Funeral Home in Owingsville is caring for all the arrangements for James Henry Reed.