Usaf (Ret.) Ernest "Ernie" Charles Reed

USAF (Ret.) Ernest “Ernie” Charles Reed, age 68 of Fairborn, passed away suddenly on Sunday August 7, 2022.  He was born June 16, 1954 in Columbus, Ohio, the son of the late Ernest and Jessie (Dersam) Reed.

Ernie served his country in the US Air Force as an “Arms“ instructor and medical technician, serving in duty stations around the world, including Alaska, Panama, and Germany, and several stateside locations.  He retired in 1992 at Wright-Patterson AFB after 20-plus years of service. Following his military service he was employed as a realtor with Coldwell Banker for 27 years.  His most enjoyable retirement gig was serving as a driver for Buckeye Charters and transporting the Dayton Flyers baseball team, the Wilmington College women’s soccer team, and the Dayton Dragons.  He also was an avid golfer and bowler and had participated in various area leagues over the years. He enjoyed hunting and the outdoors. Ernie never met a stranger and always had a smile, loved his family and friends, and lived life to the fullest.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by two sisters, Josie Reed, Laura Reed; and a brother, Everett “Skeeter” Reed.  Survivors include his wife and companion of 27 years, Barbara Hill-Reed; two sons, Ernest “Ernie” Reed, II of Troy, Phillip (Alissa) Reed of Miamisburg; step-children, Jim (Kerry) Hill of Beavercreek, Beth (Tim) Benchic of Fairborn; five grandchildren, Skyler, Jordan, Jillian, Josh, Ryker; step-grandchildren, Shelby, Morgan, Rachel, Adam, Melanie; a brother, Bud Reed; the mother of his children, Cindy Innis of West Carrollton; his beloved pets, Sam and Buzzi; as well as numerous other extended family and friends, including Laura Reed.

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Monday August 15, 2022 from 6:00 until 8:00 P.M. at the Belton-Stroup Funeral Home, 422 E. Dayton-Yellow Springs Rd., Fairborn.  A graveside service with full military honors will he held Tuesday August 16, 2022 at 1:00 P.M. at the Dayton National Cemetery, 4400 W. 3rd St., Dayton, Pastor H. Wesley Barnhill officiating.  A funeral procession with the family will leave the funeral home at 12:30 PM en route to the cemetery.

Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the Humane Society of Greene County, 187 Bellbrook Ave, Xenia.