Raymond Lewis Reed was born on February 22, 1945, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, and peacefully passed away on July 19, 2026, in Longview, Washington.
Raymond was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, veteran, mentor, and friend whose life was marked by hard work, perseverance, generosity, and an unwavering love for family. He proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1962 to 1965 as a rifleman. His military service reflected the dedication, quiet strength, and integrity that would define the rest of his life.
In 1970, Raymond moved to Seattle, Washington, where he began a distinguished 31-year career with Burlington Northern Railroad. He was among the first four Black locomotive engineers in the Burlington Northern Pacific Division and later became one of the first Black Trainmasters in the Pacific Division, supervising locomotive engineers and breaking barriers while paving the way for future generations. Throughout his career, he earned the respect of coworkers through his leadership, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.
Raymond also believed in creating opportunities for others. After establishing himself in Seattle, he encouraged and helped his brothers, James, Jerry, Ulysses, Ronald, and Roger relocate to Seattle, where they were able to begin successful careers of their own. His willingness to open doors for his family became one of his greatest legacies. A gifted craftsman and entrepreneur, Raymond built his family home in Tacoma with his own hands, a lasting testament to his determination, skill, and pride. He later purchased and remodeled an apartment complex, further demonstrating his vision, resourcefulness, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Beyond his accomplishments, Raymond will be remembered for his warm heart, generous spirit, unique sense of humor, and unmistakable laugh that brought joy to family and friends. He loved spending time with those he cherished, sharing stories, offering wisdom, and making people smile with his unforgettable laugh.
Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond T. Reed and Francis Marie Reed; his first wife, Laura Mae Butler, with whom he shared three children; and his brothers, Ulysses Reed and Roger Reed.
He is lovingly remembered by his children, Ricci Reed, Raymond Reed, Sheree Nabors, and Eric Reed. Later in life, Raymond married Gertha Rankin. Although their marriage lasted approximately 36 years, Raymond lovingly helped raise Gertha's daughter, embracing her as one of his own. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, a host of nieces and nephews, extended family, lifelong friends, and all whose lives were touched by his kindness, mentorship, and enduring example.
Though Raymond has departed this life, his legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the barriers he broke, the opportunities he created for others, and the countless lives he touched through his hard work and generosity. His memory will forever be cherished, and he will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Visitation will be held at 4-7 p.m. on August 3, 2026, at Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 300 E. 30th Ave, Hutchinson, KS. Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at Hutchinson Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson, KS.