Harry Dan Reed

Harry "Dan" Reed

April 15, 1940 – September 7, 2026

Dan, a devoted father, grandfather, and retired railroad engineer, passed away peacefully at home on September 7, 2026, in Wylie, Texas, at the age of 86.

 Dan’s journey began on April 15, 1940, in Fort Worth, Texas. A proud Texan through and through, he earned his BBA in 1966 from The University of Texas, where he was also celebrated as a member of the University of Texas Lettermen's Association.

 He originally worked as an accountant for Standard Oil, Noble Gas, and Wylie Butane, but his love for the outdoors led him back to the railroad. He brought incredible skill, focus, and dedication to his lifelong career on the rails, serving as a locomotive engineer for Southern Pacific and Union Pacific Railroad. Throughout his years, Dan kept things moving in the Union Pacific and Southern Pacific’s Miller Yard in Dallas and Ney Yard in Fort Worth. His time in the Sherman Yard was spent switching local industry cars and making a once-a-week trip to Paris, Texas. He also spent time on the extra board, taking freight trains from Dallas to Houston. 

Retirement didn't slow Dan down; it simply gave him more time to enjoy the things he loved. He spent many days working as a course marshall at Woodbridge Golf Club and dedicating himself to his unique hobbies. Dan was a true student of history and an active member of the Sons of the American Revolution. His green thumb was unmatched, known best for his incredible patience and talent in growing tropical plumeria. His love for animals was equally strong, reflected in his dedicated involvement with the Poodle Club of America and the Lone Star Poodle Club. 

Dan was a family man at heart. He was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Carolyn Gay Spencer Reed (married in 1962, passed in 2025); his parents, Madison William and Martha Mildred Reed; and his brother, Madison William Reed Jr.

 His memory will be kept alive by his children, Susan Reed Crawford (William “Bill”) of Columbia, TN, Kimberly Ann Reed (Tracy Tyner) of Flower Mound, TX, and Spencer Madison Reed (Corina Calvert) of Rowlett, TX; and his beloved granddaughter, Kylie Madison Crawford (Matthew Brian McDonell) of Melbourne, FL, who was his absolute pride and joy.

 Family and friends will gather for a Celebration of Life to be announced in the near future.