It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, John Reed, who departed this life peacefully. Born in 1939, John dedicated 35 remarkable years to teaching industrial arts at Van Buren County in Keosauqua, Iowa. His legacy as an educator and mentor will be cherished by the countless students whose lives he deeply influenced.

John married Mary Dawson on July 30, 1961, in Prairie, MO, and together they raised two sons, Shawn and Jerry. He earned his Master's Degree in Education from Northeast Missouri State University, now known as Truman State University. In recognition of his significant contributions to education, John was honored by his students in 1973 when they dedicated their yearbook to him. Additionally, he was recognized as a distinguished teacher in Leaders of America in Elementary and Secondary Education.

Among John's proudest achievements was leading the community in passing a bond to construct an addition to the school, which established a valuable learning center for future generations. His unwavering commitment to education and dedication to his students were truly inspiring and will be remembered fondly by all.

Beyond his passion for teaching, John had a great love for muscle cars and radio control model airplanes. He and Mary enjoyed traveling together and took immense pride in building their home in Eolia, MO, where they created countless cherished memories.

John is survived by his devoted wife, Mary Reed of Eolia, MO; two sons, Shawn (Kellie) Reed of Wildwood, MO, and Jerry Reed of West Valley City, UT; sister-in-laws Mary Ann Reed of West Allis, WI, and Glenna (Tom) Talbert of Eolia, MO; brother-in-laws Frank (Kay) Dawson of Lakeland and Richard Dawson of Eolia, MO; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and a host of other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Lois Reed, Homer E. Reed, Kenneth Reed, and Sarah Jane Brantstetter.

We invite all who knew and loved him to join us in honoring his life. Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 23, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at McCoy-Blossom Funeral Homes & Crematory, located at 701 N. Business Hwy 61, Bowling Green, MO 63334. The funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. at the same location. Rev. John Davis to officiate. Interment will take place at Eolia Cemetery in Eolia, MO.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Eolia Cemetery, c/o McCoy-Blossom Funeral Homes & Crematory. Family and friends are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.mccoyblossomfh.com.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your love and support during this challenging time.

Family and Friends may sign the online guestbook @www.mccoyblossomfh.com