Carolyn Ann Reed

Carolyn Ann Reed, a beloved member of the Mansfield community, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Carolyn was born in Mansfield, Ohio on March 28, 1946, to Felix and Sylvia Jordan. Carolyn leaves behind a legacy of joy, kindness, and unwavering love.

Graduating from Mansfield Senior High School, Carolyn was a hardworking laborer in the industrial sector. She also graduated with a certification in Keypunch Operations which was the precursor to the computer. However, her true passion lay in photography, a hobby she embraced wholeheartedly since receiving her first camera in the 8th grade. Taking and collecting pictures of her family and friends is her love language!

Another one of Carolyn’s heartbeats was taking family vacations! Some of her fondest memories include camping around Niagara Falls, Canada and visiting various cities and beaches along the east coast with her siblings and their families. One of her biggest dreams was to visit Paris. And in 2013 Carolyn and her best friend Shirley Jordan went to Paris, France and danced in front of the Eiffel Tower. She also cherished the “GROWN UP TRIPS ” with her brothers and their wives to exotic destinations, such as Cancun, Jamaica and the Bahamas. She also enjoyed roller skating, line dancing, and long walks with her family.

A devoted member of The Greater St. John Oasis of Love Church of God in Christ, Carolyn actively served in various capacities, including the Women’s Department, Junior Mother’s Board, Young Women’s Christian Council, and the Pastor’s Anniversary Committee. In 2017 she was awarded as the Oasis of Love’s Woman of the Year which is an honor she treasured. In her youth, she was a member of the regular choir, junior choir and the Sunshine band which was a children’s choir started by her mother Sylvia Jordan aka Mama Sylvie. Her dedication to her faith and her church family was truly inspiring.

In her later years her membership to ‘The Posse’ became her new focus! Birthdays with the Posse was her topic of conversation. From the elaborate dinners and delicious food to the constant fun sharing stories and bonding, ‘The Posse’ was another one of her favorite things to be a part of. The Posse’ members include Bonnie Crutchfield, Doris Feagin, Shirley Jordan and Carrie Nall.

Known for her warm and welcoming nature, Carolyn was affectionately referred to as the “Unofficial Mayor of Mansfield” – a testament to her ability to connect with everyone she met.

Carolyn was one of nine siblings, each holding a special place in her heart. She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years Charles Lovelle Reed and siblings Felix, George “Billy Red”, (Mary) Jordan William “Dee Dee” (Jean) Jordan, Sharlene, (Coyet) Jeter, John, (Annie) Jordan, Pastor James (Ethelene) Jordan, Bishop Walter (Shirley) Jordan and Gladys (Rudy) Burton.

An integral part of a large family, she was cherished by her children, Charles Reed and Demetria (Michael) Drayton, her granddaughters, Michaela and Mariah Drayton, her best friend Shirley Jordan, a host of nieces, nephews and close friends.

Visitation 11:00 am and Home Going Service 12:00 noon Friday April 12, 2024 at The Oasis of Love COGIC 190 Chester Ave. She will be laid to rest next to her husband Charles at Mansfield Cemetery.

As we bid farewell to Carolyn Ann Reed, let us remember her vibrant spirit, her deep love for her family, and the countless lives she touched with her infectious smile and kind heart. She will forever be cherished and dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. May her joyful memories bring comfort and peace to those who mourn her passing.

Visitation 11:00 am and Home Going Service 12:00 noon Friday April 12, 2024 at The Oasis of Love 190 Chester Ave. She will be laid to rest next to her husband Charles at Mansfield Cemetery.