It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that the family of Reed Allan Lewis of McKenzie Corner announce his passing on Friday, April 11, 2025, at Upper River Valley Hospital. He was born in Perth, NB on November 9, 1940, to the late Paul and Gertrude Lewis.

Reed married the love of his life Gertrude (Folsom) after he claims she chased him around the square in Houlton and she caught him after the soles of his shoes wore out. He was taken to the church by his ear in June 1959. He may, just may, have tested her patience a time or two. Yet they celebrated over 60 years of marriage.

He is survived by their children: Gail Lewis of McKenzie Corner, Mike (Dorothy) Lewis of Woodstock, Debbie (Willie) Dunphy of Richmond Corner, Peter (Talitha) Lewis of Fort McMurray and chosen daughter Debbie Tapley (#1 Daughter!) of Woodstock; grandchildren: Rachel Faulkner (Shane), Heather Lewis (Troy), Melissa Dunphy (Jesse), Megan Dunphy, Jasmine Lewis (Blaze), Skylar Lewis; great grandchildren: Christina Faulkner, Lincoln Faulkner (Madison), Kalee Daye (Kyle), Jayden O'Neil, Landon Ingraham and Leland Ingraham; great grandchild Wyatt.

Reed is also survived by his siblings: sisters, Muriel and Louise and brother, David (Diana) as well as nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and many great friends.

Along with his parents, Reed was predeceased by his wife Gertrude, sisters Marion Jones, Lynda Lewis; brother Darrell Lewis; brothers-in-law Alvin Jones, Thorsten Sanders, Lloyd Larocque, Richard Gogan, Roger Sherman, Bob Bartlett; nephew Eric Sherman.

A hard worker, Reed, whose nickname was Beaver, began his career working in the woods, including peeling pulp by hand. He often spoke of the belief Gerald Hawkes had in him, those many years ago, when Gerald encouraged him to buy his first pulp truck. He went on to proudly own multiple trucks and his own loader. His next career change was to become a broker on Day & Ross, flying out to BC to drive his first cabover Freightliner home. Although hauling as far west as Ontario, hauling across Newfoundland was his favorite route. After his years on the road, he sold his truck to then buy his gravel pit, gravel trucks, rock crusher, screener and a John Deere loader. He detested that loader and, that's when he showed his true colors, he would always be a Cat man. When he retired from the gravel business, he turned from four tires to four legs and rescued two Belgians, Bob and Duke. When Duke passed, Odie the miniature donkey came to keep Bob company. The barnyard would expand and through the years hold Duchess, Tiny, Robin until the final five Oliver (Ollie), Odie, Peanut, Andy and Sandy. His heart was broken too when he lost his beloved canine companion, Tiger, after 16 years.

Loving husband and father, devoted grandfather and great grandfather, Reed's family were blessed to have him so many years while he fought repeated issues with his health. Immense thanks go out to Extra Mural especially Brandon (RT) and Reed's wonderful caregivers over the years especially Christa (aka Cynthia/Cindy/Cricket) and Gaynell. Reed would never have been able to be at home until he went Home without you. Reed knew everyone and made friends wherever he went. He loved people. He was so well-liked for his outgoing and kind generous nature and zesty stories.

Reed always liked having a "picnic". A picnic for him was anytime, anywhere, indoors or outside that everyone gathered to have a bite and enjoy time together especially at his home. In his honor, there will be a "picnic" on Tuesday April 15 at 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM at his home, 3309 Route 540 to drop in, have a snack, enjoy time together and share stories. And he would be saying "Leave your boots on".

Reed's lasting eternal words: "Keep your stick on the ice"!!

A graveside service will be held at a later date. If so desired, the family has suggested donations in memory of Reed be made to the McKenzie Corner & Area Cemeteries Committee (contact Carleton Funeral Home or call 277-1091 or 277-6508) or to Extra Mural or a charity of the donor's choice.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Carleton Funeral Home, 337 Lockhart Mill Road, Jacksonville NB.

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