1938-2024
Danny (Dan) Meyer Reed was born on January 17, 1938 on a family farm in rural Denver, IL. He was the second child born to Willie Draper and Doris Ruth Reed. His early years were spent attending a one room school, working on the family farm, and attending to the needs of his local community. He graduated from Carthage High School and then attended Western Illinois University (WIU) in Macomb. Initially he was to major in Agriculture, but later decided that teaching was his calling.
In 1960, Dan accepted his first teaching position in Macomb Schools beginning at Edison Junior High and then transitioning to Macomb Senior High. He taught new math, algebra, and geometry. In addition to teaching, he sold insurance, worked at Nelson’s Clothing, and helped cherished friends maintain their homes.
On December 28, 1969 he married Nancy Joan Hodges at First Christian Church (DOC) in Macomb, IL. She survives. They have three children: Eric (Shannon) Reed, Springfield; Douglas (Stephanie) Reed, Bloomington; Margaret Taylor, Macomb. Dan was the proud grandfather of 7 grandchildren: Grant and Collin Reed, Bryce, Brennon & Addison Reed, Griffin and Drew Taylor.
Dan was preceded in death by his parents, sister and son-in-law.
Dan was involved in several small business ventures. Early on in his career, he was involved in the start-up of Mt. Carmel Ski Lodge near Colchester, IL. Additionally, he was a founding partner in The Enchanted Florist (1976) and later purchased Tranquil Gardens Nursery (1981). Following 25 years of teaching, he retired and began running the nursery full-time (1985). In 1995, Dan was hired as Grounds Superintendent at WIU and worked in that capacity for almost 10 years until retiring from that position. Dan enjoyed running the nursery and helping at the florist shop until their closure.
Dan was a member of First Christian Church (DOC) of Macomb for over 50 years where he served as board chair, trustee and elder. He also served on the Macomb Public Library board from 1970 – 1991, serving as president from 1974 – 1976. Dan was a member of the Illinois Education Association, Macomb Elks Lodge, and other groups over the years.
In his spare time, Dan enjoyed going to the YMCA, collecting antiques, and caring for his many gardens/flowers. Dan was very creative and loved to share his gifts with others. He was good to keep in touch with many friends, former students, and family members over the years. He loved food, to host dinners, and share stories. Dan possessed a wealth of knowledge of McDonough and Hancock County genealogy.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, August 29, 2024 at the First Christian Church in Macomb with Pastor Kelly Ingersoll officiating. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, August 28, 2024 at Clugston-Tibbitts Funeral Home in Macomb. Burial will be in Forest Lawn Memory Gardens in Macomb.
Memorials may be made to the First Christian Church.
You may leave condolences and sign the guest book online at clugston-tibbitts.com.
