Paul Richard “Dick” Reed, age 69, of Independence, Missouri, passed away at home on August 24, 2026.
Paul was born in Dover, New Jersey, on July 31, 1957, to Cecil and Muriel Reed. He was raised in Budd Lake, New Jersey, where he lived until the age of 20. He was the second youngest of eight children.
Paul had a lifelong passion for drag racing, and his pride and joy was his ’69 Nova. He shared countless stories of the adventures and escapades he had in that car. He loved street racing, making enhancements, and spending time with friends working on cars.
His love of music was just as varied as his interests. His tastes ranged from Pavarotti to Quiet Riot, and there was rarely a genre of music he couldn't appreciate.
More than anything, Paul loved to work. Whether he was working on machines, cars, or projects with wood, he was happiest when he was building, fixing, improving, or simply keeping his hands busy. He was always working on something.
In the summer of 1975, Paul met the love of his life, Karen. Despite some initial reservations from Karen’s father, Paul was determined that she was the one. They were married in February 1977, beginning an incredible 49-year marriage filled with love, family, laughter, and memories.
Together, Paul and Karen raised three children and welcomed five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Paul is survived by his beloved wife, Karen Reed; his siblings Margaret, Grace, Bill (Sandy), Brenda (Paul), and sister-in-law Pam; his oldest son Christopher (Amber), daughter Shannon, and youngest son Jeremy (Laura).
He was the proudest grandfather to Keandre, Aurora (Stephen), Amarrya, Damian, Brayden, and his great-granddaughter, Adeline. Paul also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly.
Paul was a true family man. He would do anything to make sure the people he loved knew they were loved, supported, and cared for. His family was one of his greatest sources of pride, and the memories he created with them will continue to live on.
Paul was preceded in death by his father, Cecil; his mother, Muriel; his siblings Ray and Jim; his father-in-law, Charles; his mother-in-law, Deloma; and his brother-in-law, Paul Allen.
A Celebration of Life will be held on September 19, 2026, at 1:00 PM at:
Village Heights Community of Christ
1009 Farview Drive
Independence, MO 64056
The doors will open at 12:15 PM for family and friends to gather, view a slideshow, and spend time remembering Paul before the service begins.
Paul will be deeply missed, but his stories, his laughter, his love of cars and music, and most importantly, the love he had for his family will live on in all who knew him.
