Joan Reed

age 87, passed away peacefully in Northwest Community Hospital surrounded by her loving family. She was born and raised in Howell, MI, the daughter of Robert B. and Isobel (Adams) Mac Donald. She knew her beloved husband Gerald “Jerry” Reed since she was 4 years old. Following high school, Joan graduated as an airline hostess, but her true passion was in the banking industry where she excelled in numerous positions including loan officer. As their moves took them to various communities in Illinois, Georgia, and Tennessee, Joan also worked in the accounting department of various medical offices. Joan and Jerry were married on February 4, 1961 and were blessed with one son, Thomas (Tom). In 1975 they adopted their second son, Timothy (Tim), from Seoul, South Korea. Prior to adopting Tim, Joan and Jerry were foster parents to 8 children while living in Arlington Heights. During their time in Arlington Heights they were members of FUMCAH and Joan was instrumental in starting the church’s nursery. While they lived in GA and TN, one of Joan’s most treasured activities was driving with Jerry through the Great Smoky Mountains and attending concerts featuring Southern Gospel Quartets. She opened and operated a specialty gift store, and also enjoyed working with friends on numerous projects and activities at the various churches they attended. In addition, she was honored and proud to be a Charter Member of the Cornerstone UMC in Newnan, GA. Joan was preceded in death by her parents and younger sister, Barbara. She is survived by Jerry, her husband of 63 years; son Tom and his wife Janet; son Tim and his wife Nohemi; grandchildren Brandon and his wife Jenna, and Melanie; and numerous nieces and nephews. A receiving of friends and family will be held on Sunday, April 28th from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm at the First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., followed by a Celebration of Love, Life, and Resurrection Ceremony. Internment will take place in the Resurrection Garden at the church immediately following the Ceremony. A time of fellowship for everyone will be held in FUMCAH’s Gathering Place following the Internment Ceremony. (Note: The family encourages casual attire for the Visitation, Service and Fellowship.) In lieu of flowers, those who wish to make a memorial contribution may direct it to the First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.