Larry Reed Obituary

FAIRBORN — Larry Leonard Reed, 87, of Bluffton, South Carolina, formerly of Fairborn, Ohio, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025. Born on May 5, 1938, in Wellston, Ohio, Larry was the son of the late Glendon and Helen Reed. He was also preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patty Reed; his brother and sister-in-law, Lewie and Doris Reed; and his son, Derek Scott Reed. Larry dedicated the majority of his career as a Mechanical Engineer for the United States Air Force at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Fairborn. A brilliant mind and committed professional, Larry's proudest achievement was serving as the lead mechanical engineer in the development of the in-flight refueling system for U.S. Air Force aircraft — a breakthrough that revolutionized the Air Force's capabilities and operations. Beyond his career, Larry lived life with purpose, joy, and generosity. He had a passion for cycling and participated in many Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure (GOBA) trips alongside his daughter, brother, and sister-in-law. They rode up to 50 miles a day and camped under the stars—treasured memories that reflected his spirit of adventure and love for family. Larry also loved to cook, and his homemade chicken pot pies became a signature dish lovingly shared with neighbors, friends, and family. A man of steadfast faith, Larry was a long-time member of First Baptist Church of Fairborn, where he served faithfully as a Sunday School teacher, usher, and deacon. His quiet strength, warm heart, and humble service impacted many lives over the years. Larry is survived by his daughter, Lori Trapani (David) of Hilton Head Island, SC; his grandchildren, Brian Stoner (Trisha) of Dayton, OH; Alexandra Brainard (Davis) of Atlanta, GA; and Ava Womble of Charleston, SC; his great-granddaughters, Marley and Adaleigha Stoner of Dayton, OH; his niece, Melissa White (Jim) of Fairborn, OH; and his nephew, Lewis Reed (Rose) of Xenia, OH. A joint memorial service celebrating the lives of Larry and his late wife, Patty, will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at First Baptist Church in Fairborn, Ohio. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Larry will be remembered for his gentle spirit, unwavering faith, brilliant mind, and generous heart. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family he so dearly loved.