Obituaries

Alice Jane Leach Reed

Photo of Alice Jane Leach Reed
Alice Jane Leach Reed of Sheridan, Arkansas was (9/30/1937-6/11/2017) born in Pine Bluff, Ark. to James Scott Leach and Alma Keck Leach, Jane lived almost all of her life in central Arkansas. Jane and her husband Bobby Gene Reed moved to Sheridan in 2011 where they lived until Bobby passed away in December 2014. Jane passed on from this life peacefully at home while recovering from a recent surgical procedure. Jane was a devoted wife and mother of five children. She was a talented pianist and artist who could rarely find time to enjoy either while raising her family. Jane's art covered striking scenes of natural beauty and her intricate drawings painstakingly reflected both an eye for detail and the patience to transform detail into beauty. She worked to teach all of her children how to play piano and, in true "Greatest Generation" tradition taught all of her children how to sew, knit, and crochet. Jane's life was reflective of a different time and tradition. Married her senior year in high school (1955), Jane worked to raise her family of five in Pine Bluff, Aerk. for over 30 years, becoming an "empty nester" finally in 1984. Throughout her life, Jane was known for her quick wit and creativity. Always a step ahead, Jane had the look in her eyes that showed she knew just what was on your mind. Jane is survived by her five children and their families: Carl and Diane Reed of Ogden, Utah, Joe and Tina Reed of Pleasanton, Calif.; Jean Reed-Woods and Bill Watson of Little Rock, Ark.; Merri and Stephen Thompson of Sheridan, Ark.; and Michael Reed living in Southern England. She also has nine grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Her desire was to always strive to be productive and useful, and even in her death she insisted this wish be carried out by donating her body to medical research. The Genesis Program in Memphis, Tennessee, was the recipient of this gift. Additionally, she was so grateful for those who helped her care for her late husband in the 18 months prior to his death, and requested any memorials upon her death be designated to Arkansas Hospice, 14 Parkstone Circle, North Little Rock, Ark. 72116. Arrangements by Memorial Gardens of Sheridan (870) 942-1306. www.memorialgardenssheridan.com

Published June 21, 2017

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