Reed Remembered As A Christian, Visionary, Servant-Leader

[syndicaster id=’6197288′]
TUPELO, MISS. (WCBI) – Tupelo said goodbye to one of its most influential leaders today. More than one thousand people attended the funeral of Jack Reed Sr., who passed away Wednesday at the age of 91.

They began arriving at First United Methodist Church an hour before the service.
Those who couldn’t get inside the sanctuary watched the funeral from an overflow room inside Wesley Hall.

Special music was provided by Mac McAnally.

Former Mayor Jack Reed Jr., welcomed everyone, sharing memories and humor.

“Our store employees, Dad always told me when I came back to the store, if the store is strong the family will be strong, we certainly are strong and I appreciate all of that, as they know, it would be inappropriate to mention our inventory clearance sale starts tomorrow,” Reed said.

William Winter served as governor of Mississippi from 1980 to 1984, knew Reed for more than 60 years. He says Reed’s speech to the Mississippi Economic Council in 1963 was a watershed moment in the fight for civil rights.

“In a spirit of Christian love and concern, that he inherited from his beloved parents and that he absorbed from growing up in this very church, he called for us to respect the law and to treat every citizen with fairness and dignity regardless of race,” Gov. Winter said.

Senior Pastor Fred Britton said Reed was an avid reader, who was devoted to his family, and his Christian faith.

“No doubt, his thoughts were shaped by the Christian , teachings of Jesus. There is one particular passage of scripture that had a powerful impact upon his life, it’s even written on the front of his businesses employee handbook. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” Rev. Britton said.

Other speakers encouraged everyone to serve their communities, speak out about injustice and lead a life of integrity, just like Mr Reed.

Jack Reed Sr.,  was also remembered for his role in improving public education throughout the state.