A long time educator and former superintendent of Etowah City Schools, Oran Matney
Reed, died Thursday, November 17th at Woods Memorial Hospital surrounded by his
family who loved him so much. Born and raised in Etowah, Reed leftTennesseeWesleyan College in 1941 to enlist in the United States Army. He was a staff sergeant in the 58th Quartermaster Supply Unit. After returning from the war he married the love of his life, Mildred Hampton of Etowah, and continued with his education, receiving a bachelor's degree and then a master's degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

He began his life's career as an educator as principal of Conasauga School and then
later as principal of Etowah Grammar School. He was elected Etowah City
Superintendent of Schools in 1963, serving until 1979.

His community efforts were many and he contributed much time and enthusiasm to the
TWC Alumni Association. In 1988 he received the R. Frank McKinney Award for
distinguished service in the community. He was a faithful and loyal member of
St. Paul's United Methodist Church and followed his calling there faithfully
with humility and love.

He was the son of Oran L. and Nell Matney Reed. He was preceded in death by his
wife of 61 years, Mildred Hampton. Survivors include three children; Reverend
Rebecca Reed of Etowah, Rev. Tom Reed and wife Deata of Bluff City, TN and
Margaret Hubble and husband Rev. Mike Hubble of Chattanooga, TN; four
grandchildren, Daniel and Adam Hubble, Annie Jones and Jeremy Reed and three great-grandchildren.

Reed was a well-loved and inspirational mentor to many children who passed his way.
His 90th birthday was celebrated with over 200 people attending to wish him
well. He was a godly man who showed love and interest in all those he met. He
will be greatly and sorely missed.

The funeral servicewill be heldat 3:30 p.m., Sunday, November 20th, at the Saint Paul
United Methodist Church wtih Rev. Jason Crandall officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 3:30 p.m., prior to the service.Interment to follow at Green Hill Cemetery.