Donald Reed

Donald Cooper Reed age 79 years of Gibbstown departed from his earthly body and traveled to the arms of his Heavenly Father on Friday February 18, 2011. Without complaint, Don fought a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He taught those in his life how to live and die with dignity. Don was born on October 25, 1931 and was the second of four children born to Albert E. and Marian Reed. He graduated from Swedesboro High School and received his Bachelor’s Degree from Drury College in Missouri. Don married his wife, Bertha Gesty in 1953 and after serving his country during the Korean War they settled in Gibbstown and raised two children. After employment with Hercules Chemical Company, Don and his wife founded and operated Don and Bert’s Custard Stand in Paulsboro. At the custard stand and in his home, Don was a mentor to those around him. He always placed the needs of others above his own, and was an example of strength, love and faith. Don enjoyed giving out what he called “Nuggets” – bits of scripture to everyone he met. With his wife at his side, Don made many missionary trips around the world, including China, India, Peru, the Philippines, Japan, Jamaica, the Virgin Islands and Mexico spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He was a faithful member of New Life World Outreach Ministries in Millville where he taught Sunday school for many years and did street ministry winning many souls for Christ. Don leaves behind his loving wife of 57 years, Bertha Reed (Nee Gesty); one son, Donald K. Reed (Priscilla) of Clarksboro; two grandsons, Capt. Donald K. Reed Jr. (Meghan) of Lacey, WA and Kyle B. Reed of Philadelphia, PA; two great grandsons, Jackson and Mason. In addition to his parents, a son, Dwayne Reed, two brothers, Milton and Russell Reed, and a sister, Claire Mohr predeceased him. The Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 AM Wednesday February 23, 2011 in the McBride - Foley Funeral Home, 228 W. Broad St., Paulsboro. Friends may call Tuesday evening from 7 to 9 PM and Wednesday morning after 9:30 AM. Interment Eglington Cemetery, Clarksboro. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in Don’s memory may be made to Vitas Innovative Hospice Care, 521 Fellowship Rd., Suite 110, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054. Memories can be shared at www.mcbridefoleyfh.com.

Donald Reed

October 25, 1931 - February 18, 2011