Freda Reed, age 94, of Flora, Illinois, passed away Monday morning, June 30, 2025, at Axiom Gardens Care Center in Flora.

      She was born June 22, 1931, in Flora, the daughter of Albert Scott and Blanche Gertrude (Richardson) White.  She was united in marriage to Ivan Eugene “Gene” Reed on December 20, 1952, at the Evangelical United Methodist Church Flora, and together they shared 56 wedding anniversaries until his passing on May 6, 2009.

      Freda attended the Florena one-room schoolhouse south of Flora and was a 1950 graduate of Flora Township High School.  She worked briefly as a telephone operator in Flora before starting a family.  For many years, she provided childcare from her home, caring for many children in the area.  A dedicated hard worker, Freda kept a well-ordered home while babysitting and raising her children and grandchildren.  She was a talented seamstress and an exceptional cook, known for her delicious pies, cobblers, bread pudding, and homemade noodles.  Freda found joy in caring for her flowers and plants, tending to her garden, and searching for treasures at yard sales.  She attended Flora First Church of God.      

      She is survived by her children: Sandy (Jess) Cummings of Katy, Texas, Debbie (Gary) Perry of Flora, Brenda (Bill) Britton of Peculiar, Missouri, Linda (Chuck) Spitzner of Rinard, Scott (Sherrie) Reed of Peoria, and Tony (Krista) Reed of Olney; 17 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and a brother: Dennis (Edna) White of Decatur.

      She was preceded in death by her parents; husband: Gene Reed; a son: Mike Reed; a brother: Carl White; and a sister: Lela Colclasure.

      A funeral ceremony will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora with Pastor Richard Artis officiating.  Interment will follow in Elmwood Cemetery.  A visitation will be held from 2-3 p.m. on Sunday at the funeral home.  Memorial donations are suggested to Flora First Church of God, or any charity of the donor’s choice, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com