Samuel Reed

Samuel Reed, 70, died Thursday, March 20, 2008, at his residence.

Born in Clarendon County, he was a son of the late Rev. John R. and Emma Bennett Reed. He attended the public schools of Clarendon County. At an early age, he joined Pine Grove AME Church and later Emmanuel United Methodist Church, where he served on Friends for Life, United Methodist Men, the usher board, finance committee, steward and trustee boards and the beautification committee.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Vermelle C. Reed; his second wife, Mary James Reed; a son, Keever Reed; a daughter, Winniphia Reed; a brother, Edward Reed; and two sisters, Oliee Woods and Annie Canty.

Survivors include three sons, Handel Reed and Alex James III, both of Sumter, and Thadis R. Reed of Aiken; a daughter, Latoria R.(Justin) Cooks of Jacksonville, Ark.; four grandchildren, Crystal, Katherine Victoria, LaTia Verkee and Alex James IV; a brother, William Reed of Brooklyn, N.Y.; two sisters, Susie Kenly of Sumter and Geneva Sheriod of Alcolu; and a host of other relatives.

Funeral services were held on Monday, March 31, 2008, at Emmanuel United Methodist Church, Sumter, with the pastor, the Rev. Joyce Chiles, officiating.

Interment followed in Hillside Memorial Park.

Palmer Memorial Chapel Inc. of Sumter was in charge of the arrangements.