James Robert Reed

James Robert Reed, 46, returned to his Father in Heaven after a tragic accident on December 19, 2023. He was born on January 5, 1977 to Robert James Reed and TerriLynn Preston Reed in Salt Lake City, Utah. He grew up in Taylorsville, Utah. From 1996-1998 he served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Tempe Arizona. On August 17, 2005 he was sealed to Michelle Oveson in the Salt Lake Temple.

Jim loved Halloween, Star Wars, and adventures. Jim approached each Halloween with great creativity and excitement. Each year he spent hours transforming our front yard into an amazing Halloween display. After spending hours on his own display, you could often find him helping fellow haunters with their displays and encouraging new haunters to join in the fun. Every item in the graveyard was either handmade or improved by Jim. His artistic talents were showcased in our front yard. Halloween was more than a holiday to Jim, it was a time to create memories and bring joy to all those around him.

Another passion for Jim was Star Wars. Jim’s enthusiasm for Star Wars was infectious. Whether quoting Yoda’s wisdom, debating the finer points of the Force, or participating in light saber duels with his friends and family, his love of Star Wars was a source of joy in his life. You would often find him teaching anyone who would listen how to use fencing techniques to improve their light saber duels.

Jim was always up for an adventure. Many times, those adventures included traveling to new places. One of Jim and Michelle’s favorite things to do was travel. You could find them dashing through Disneyland to get to the next ride, exploring the beaches of Hawaii, or learning a new culture in England. On each adventure, Jim made sure to take the time to carefully select a new ornament for their Christmas tree. These ornaments will serve as a reminder of their fun adventures throughout his life.

One of Jim’s remarkable qualities was his ability to make friends with everyone he encountered. To Jim no one was ever a stranger. Whether you just moved in next door or you happened to be standing by him in line at Disneyland, Jim made you feel like a friend. His welcoming nature made him a magnet for friendship.

Jim’s greatest treasure was his daughter Makenzie. The happiest day of his life was the day she was born. He loved her with all of his heart. He shared his love of Halloween, Star Wars and traveling with his daughter. She was often found putting on costumes, grabbing light sabers for duels and asking when their next adventure would be. He was an amazing father who would do anything for his little girl. Makenzie equally loved her “Daddy Jim Bob.”

He is survived by his wife Michelle and daughter Makenzie, parents, Bob and TerriLynn Reed, siblings: Christy (Matt) Goodro, John (Amy) Reed, Mark (Nicole) Reed, Gary Reed, and Amber (Anthony) Towner, and his parents-in-law Ken and Janet Oveson. He is preceded in death by his Aunt Mae and Uncle Dave.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, December 27, 2023 at 11 AM with a viewing 10 AM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on 6567 S. Wakefield Way, West Valley City. An evening viewing will be held on Tuesday, December 26, 2023 from 6:00-8:00 PM at the same location. Interment will be at Memorial Redwood Cemetery.