Elfa Rosalee Reed was born on her family’s farm in Alton, Missouri, July 11, 1941, and departed this life January 28, 2023, at the age of 81 years, 6 months, and 22 days.
She was married to James Lee Reed July 6, 1958, and to this union two children were born, Karen LaRue and Jarvis Lee.
Rosalee and James Lee served in many churches in Missouri and Arkansas. She was a Sunday school teacher and church pianist. Additionally, she played piano for a gospel group comprised of James Lee Reed, Gary Mitchener, Susan (Combs) Nicholson, and LaRue (Reed) Bennett.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Reverend Davie Combs and Claudia (Huff) Combs; her husband of over 62 years James Lee Reed, whom she cared for tirelessly in their home until his passing; her daughter Karen LaRue Bennett; and her sister Evalee Lasater.
She is survived by her son Jarvis Reed (wife Kelli); her grandson Derrick Bennett (wife Tricia); son-in-law Dean Bennett; granddaughters Katie Adams (husband Brandon), Sara Johnson (husband Jayden), and Cassandra Springer; great-grandchildren Katherine Bennett, Hailey Bennett, Karen Bennett, Emmarie Adams, Renleigh Adams, Olivia LaRue Adams, Jarron Johnson, and Cade Johnson; nieces Ralinda Register (husband Ray) and Stephanie Locher (husband John); and many great-nieces and nephews, friends, and extended family.
A good name is better than precious ointment, and the day of death better than the day of one’s birth.
Ecclesiastes 7:1
Funeral services for Rosalee Reed, age 81, of Myrtle, Missouri, will be held on Friday, February 3, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel in Thayer, Missouri. Visitation will be Thursday, February 2 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Carter Funeral Home in Thayer, Missouri.
Interment will be on Friday, February 3, 2023, in Walnut Grove Cemetery, Dalton, Arkansas with services under the direction of Carter Funeral Home, Inc. in Thayer, Missouri.
January 28, 2023 @ 6:23 pm
A Wonderful Christian Lady and friend to the Reynolds family for many years. You will be missed, especially by your lifelong friend, Norma Reynolds.
January 28, 2023 @ 7:14 pm
Our deepest sympathy to the family of Rosalee. She was a classmate of 1959 class and will be remembered for her quiet and meek spirit. Her dedication and love for her family were evident in the care she gave them.
January 29, 2023 @ 5:45 pm
We are so sorry for your loss of a beautiful mother. We are sending love and prayers to all of you.
January 31, 2023 @ 10:59 am
Sorry for Rosalee’s passing. Sometimes her health was bad, but she was able to make it through. A life well lived. My deepest condolences to all her family. Jarvis and Nicole, God will give you peace as you remember your mother.
February 2, 2023 @ 11:16 am
Praying for you Jarvis and all of your family. Your mom was such a sweet and kind lady. I remember her sweet laugh . Praying for God’s peace for you all.
February 2, 2023 @ 3:28 pm
I have always had a special place in my heart for Rosalee. She was so helpful to me when I was battling breast cancer. Prayers to your family at this difficult time.