Keith Reed

R. Keith Reed, 84, passed away January 22, 2026. He was born January 4, 1942 in Johnston, Iowa. Keith grew up at The Des Moines Children’s Home until he was 14 years old and then lived at the Johnston Boys Home until he graduated from Johnston High School.

Keith and Carol Ferguson were married on June 13, 1970 in Ankeny, Iowa and from this union two children were born. John Warren in 1972 and Melissa Ann in 1974. The family moved to a farm east of Greenfield, Iowa 4 months before Missy was born in 1974 and remained in Greenfield until 2011 when they moved to Ankeny, Iowa. Keith farmed with the help of his son and worked at Conway Central Express (XPO Logistics) in Des Moines, Iowa until he retired in 2002. He was also a proud member of the Greenfield Crusade Lodge #386 Ancient, Free, and Accepted Masons for many years.

Keith enjoyed a good steak, listening to the birds sing, and Oliver tractors hum. Most of all he enjoyed listening to his great grandchildren laugh and play. He was incredibly proud of his grandkids and the lives they’ve built for themselves.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Carol Reed; son, John (Robin) Reed; daughter, Missy Frederick; grandchildren, Ashley (Kyle) Weaver, Chris (Kayla) Reed; greatgrandchildren, Amber, Paisley, Zona, Haylee, Bentley, Grayson, and Indy; and many other loving friends and family members.

Keith was preceded in death by his mother, Aleatha Reed; his in-laws, Warren and Jean Ferguson; son- in-law, Leland Frederick; and great grandson, Matthew Weaver.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Ankeny Fire Department or UnityPoint Hospice - Taylor House in loving memory of Keith Reed.

Family will greet friends Monday, February 2, 2026 from 11:00 to 12:00 p.m. with memorial service to follow at 12:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa. Keith will be laid to rest at Lowman Cemetery in Runnells at a later date.

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