J.C. Battle & Sons Funeral Home (543 Rockdale Ave, Cincinnati OH 45229)
Friday 01/05/1968 Saturday 01/17/2026 Blue Ash, OH
Service
Saturday 01/17/2026 11:00am to 12:00pm
Civic Garden Center
2715 Reading Rd
Cincinnati, Oh 45206
Obituary
Reed, James W Passed Saturday, January 17, 2026 Age 58 years. Memorial Service on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Civic Garden Center, 2715 Reading Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45206.Special online condolences for family and friends may be expressed at https://www.jcbattleandsons.com Life Story: James William Reed January 5, 1968 January 17, 2026 James William Reed passed away on January 17, 2026, at the age of 58. Born on January 5, 1968, James lived a life defined by independence, resilience, and quiet strength. James was the son of Jimmy Lee Reed and Janet Alene James, and was also deeply loved by his bonus mother, Eileen Cooper Reed. He was a devoted father to his daughter, Jazmine Reed, who was the center of his world. He also shared a lifelong bond with Sonia Reed, the mother of his only child. James earned a bachelors degree in industrial engineering, reflecting both his analytical mind and his strong work ethic. He was a proud veteran, having served honorably as a Marine, including service during Operation Desert Storm. His formative years were shaped at St. Marks and Purcell Marian, where he was actively involved in football and wrestling. Those early experiences reflected the traits that followed him throughout life: determination, discipline, and an unshakable sense of self. James was known for being stubborn yet steadfast, strong-willed yet deeply loving. He was an independent thinker, a risk-taker, and a hard worker who was not easily swayed by others opinions. He was social and engaging, often enjoying the simple pleasure of making others smile and lightening the mood around him. He carried a wisdom that was uniquely his own, shaped by experience and independence. Living fully on his own terms, he left a presence that was sometimes understated but always felt. He is survived by his daughter Jazmine Reed; siblings India Martin, Kira Swann, Jennifer Dunn, and Jarrod Reed; and is preceded in death by his brother Jason Reed. He is also survived by his aunt Carolyn Lyles. James William Reed will be remembered for his strength, his loyalty, and his unwavering authenticity. His legacy lives on through his daughter, his family, and all those who were fortunate enough to know him beyond the surface.
His Celebration of Life service will be held on January 31, 2026, at The Civic Garden Center, 2715 Reading Road, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45206.
Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Service 12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
