Ned Eugene Reece, 87, of Galion, went to be with Jesus on Sunday, June 8, 2025, in the comfort of his own home with his family by his side. Ned was born on March 30, 1938, in Galion to his late parents, Hugh M. and Miriam W. (Nichols) Reece.
 

Ned attended Iberia School until the family moved to Galion where he graduated from Galion High School in 1956.
 

From there, Ned dedicated years of his professional life to North Electric until its closure and then, alongside his beloved wife, Judy, owned and operated Pinegrove Christian Books for 25 years, which later became Harvest House Books. His entrepreneurial spirit was paralleled only by his devotion to community and faith. Ned received Jesus as his Savior when he was 26 years old and his life was eternally changed, aiming to serve the Lord. Ned was a gifted lay pastor who taught and preached in numerous churches throughout the area. Always thinking ahead, Ned was prepared to preach at a moment's notice with a sermon ready. Even though he visited several congregations, Pulaskiville Community Church always felt like home. In recent years, though, due to his illness, he attended Wayside Chapel and Galion Alliance Church.
 

Ned was known for his incredible discipline, logging over 70,000 miles as an avid runner and competing in numerous 5k, half-marathon, and marathon races. He also enjoyed taking care of his property, from mowing the lawn to gardening, weed-whipping to tree-trimming. Ned managed Fairview Cemetery for many years and owned Reece Monuments.
 

Ned was happiest when his family was all together. Holiday and birthday celebrations were some of his favorite times. Although Ned will be missed, we rejoice knowing that he is with his Lord and Savior and we look forward to our reunion with him one day.
 

He is survived by Judy Reece, his devoted wife of 66 years; his daughter, Sheryl (Larry) Saunders, of Galion; sister, Joan Columbus, of Wooster; grandchildren, Jason Saunders, Lorie (Jason) Deschu, Candi (Billy) Bowlin, Hope (Josh) Kocher; great-grandchildren, Billy Bowlin, Brad Bowlin, Gus Deschu, Silas Deschu, Ruth Kocher, Jack Kocher, Leah Kocher, Levi Kocher, and baby boy Kocher. Additionally, constant companions throughout his life were the beloved black-and-white cats he cherished.
 

Along with Ned's parents, he is preceded in death by his stepmother Maragaret (Hill) Reece, stepmother, Marie (Kruger) Reece, and brother-in-law, David Columbus.
Friends may call on Monday, June 16, 2025, at Galion Alliance Church, 430 Portland Way North, Galion from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm. Services will follow at 12:00 pm with Pastor Josh Kocher officiating. Burial will take place at Fairview Cemetery following the service.
 

Memorial contributions may be made to Galion Alliance Church, 430 Portland Way North, Galion.
 

Those wishing to share a memory of Ned or send condolences to the Reece family may do so by visiting www.Masfh.com.
 

The Gompf Funeral Service-Galion Chapel is honored to serve the family of Ned Eugene Reece.

 

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