Frank David Reed, Sr.
May 30, 1933 – November 23, 2024
Frank Reed embraced every moment of his 91 years of life. Born the fifth of
seven children to Edwin Goodhue and Myrtle Cobb Reed, he enjoyed a
childhood on the family farm, surrounded by his siblings: Ewell, Clara,
Ralph, Clifford, Neal, and Jane. Over the years, he organized gatherings at
the family farm, cherishing the company of relatives and friends as they
reminisced about old memories and created new ones.
Frank, one of the most promising members of the renowned Reed brothers
in Aggie football, received a scholarship to the University of Alabama and
began his studies in June 1951. That August, he was selected to play in the
Alabama High School All-Star game, where he unfortunately sustained a
knee injury. Despite this setback, he continued to play football for the
University of Alabama during his freshman year, but another knee injury
ultimately ended his playing career. Undeterred, Frank remained involved
in football, serving as the freshman team trainer in 1953 and as assistant
athletic trainer for all athletic programs at the University of Alabama during
the 1954-1955 seasons. Frank, his brothers Ralph and Neal, and his
granddaughter Mary Kathryn “Capper” Reed were all inducted into the
Marshall County Sports Hall of Fame.
After graduating from the University of Alabama in 1956, Frank embarked
on a remarkable career in education. He started as an assistant football
coach at Albertville for a year before making a lasting impact in various
roles. Frank served as principal at Arab Middle School, assistant principal
at Guntersville High School, vocational counselor for Marshall County
Schools, director of the Marshall Technical School, and superintendent for
Marshall County Schools. His dedication spanned 29 years, culminating in
his retirement in September 1998. But Frank’s commitment to education
didn’t end there. In 2000, he was elected to the Marshall County Board of
Education, where he continued to serve until 2012. Frank was a strong
presence in the lives of many students and teachers, profoundly impacting
and changing their futures.
Frank’s unwavering commitment to the Marshall County community was
evident throughout his life. He served as a volunteer fireman, actively
participated in the Civitan club, and was a distinguished member of the
Masons. Frank made countless friends and was known for being a
wonderful friend to many. With his remarkable gift for remembering names,
he was always eager to introduce his friends and family to new
acquaintances, fostering connections wherever he went.
During his retirement, Frank took pleasure in spending time with his family
and relaxing on afternoon boat rides on Lake Guntersville. He indulged in
his passions for gardening, building, and tinkering with cars, boats, tractors,
and anything else with a motor. Frank also loved watching college football
and reading books about World War II. He celebrated every birthday with
joy and gratitude, never complaining about aging, but feeling fortunate to
live another year.
Frank is survived by his wife, Danna Harris Reed, and their son Ted; his
first wife, Kathryn Rains Reed, and their children David Reed (Jamey) and
Joy Reed Moore (Danny); his stepson, D. Blanchard (Angie), son of Danna
Harris Reed; and Amanda Francis, who was like an adopted daughter to
him; his grandchildren, Mary Kathryn Reed, Whit Reed (Kali), Jim Reed
(Sara), Anna Moore Brill (Chris), Jack Moore (Catherine), Curt Blanchard,
Will Blanchard, and Mac Reed; his great-grandchildren, Aline and Maleigh
Reed, Lottie and Guy Reed; his sister, Jane Reed Garner; his sister-in-law,
Judy Reed; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, great-
great-nieces and nephews, and a great-great-great-niece.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family
requests donations be made to Shephard’s Cove Hospice, Albertville,
Alabama.
