James Reed

September 13, 1947 — August 31, 2025

San Lorenzo, California

James Frederick Reed, Jr., known to his family and friends as “Fred,” passed away on August 31, 2025, in Castro Valley, California, at the age of 77. He was born on September 13, 1947, in Franklin County, Kansas, to Frederick Reed, Sr. and Josie Bittenbender.

Fred graduated from Baldwin High School in 1965 and soon after joined the United States Navy. He proudly served three years, including a tour in Vietnam, before returning home. Following his military service, Fred built a long and dedicated career with the United States Postal Service, where he worked for 20 years until his retirement.  After retiring, Fred settled in Diamond Springs, California, where he enjoyed the quiet beauty of a lake view retirement community.

Never one to sit still, he also worked part time for ten years as a security guard at Red Hawk Casino, where he built lasting friendships and remained connected to his community.  Fred will be remembered by his neighbors as kind and always ready to give a helping hand — he never let anybody down when they needed his support.

He was an avid photographer and loved the outdoors, finding joy in capturing life’s moments behind the camera. A devoted fan of The Far Side comics, Fred’s quirky sense of humor was a hallmark of his personality, bringing smiles and laughter to everyone who knew him. He loved his grandchildren deeply and never forgot a birthday, always making them feel cherished and celebrated.  

Fred was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Glenda Anderson Reed, in 2018. He is survived by his son Christopher Reed and daughter-in-law Karina Reed; his grandchildren Ethan, Leonardo, and Alexander; his brothers David Reed (and sister-in-law Jayne Reed) and Ronald Reed, Sr.; and many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 am, Friday, September 19, 2025 at the Schneider Funeral Home, La Cygne Chapel. Visitation will be from 10:00 am until service time. Burial will be at the Oak Lawn Cemetery.