Benita Harris Reed

Benita Harris Reed went to be with her Lord on March 26, 2015 in Dallas, Georgia in the home of her granddaughter, Sarah Whitehead Tankersley who provided loving care along with her wonderful caregiver, Jane Kimani. Benita was the daughter of Mary Owens Harris and Jarvis Barney Harris and was born in Cordelle, GA in June 1924. The family moved to Charlotte, NC in 1941 where she graduated form Oakhurst High School lettering in basketball and served as team captain. She went on to earn a cosmetology certificate and license from Farah School of Beauty in Rock Hill, SC. She married William (Bill) O. Reed May 26, 1942 until his death in 1997. They retired to Charlotte, NC in 1982 at which time she went to work at Ledford's Clothing Store and later became manager of the ladies department until its closing. She was the 9th of 12 children and was preceded in death by three sisters and 5 brothers, her husband, William (Bill) O. Reed and grandson, William Reed Springer. Surviving are three siblings, Mary Lee Harris Polk, Joyce Harris Scott and Robert L. Harris. Also, daughters Julie Reed Botkis (Dale C.) and Renee Reed Whitehead (Steve R.), grandsons, E.E. "Skip" Springer, C. Jason, W. Tyler and Caleb H. Whitehead and granddaughter, Sarah Whitehead Tankersley. Also surviving are eight great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. Benita was lovingly known to her grandchildren as Mimi, who was very much a hands on grandmother. She was a wonderful cook and fine seamstress. She enjoyed gardening from flowers to vegetables. Hospitality was certainly a gift she possessed and all who entered her home felt welcomed and loved. Benita taught the Love Sunday School Class at Hickory Grove Baptist Church for many years. She was an avid student of the Word of God for which her life was a radiant reflection. A service in celebration of her life will be held at Noon Saturday, April 4, 2015 at Hickory Grove Baptist Church with The Reverend Henry Ward and The Reverend Arnold Kessler officiating. Interment will follow in Sharon Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 11:00-12:00 prior to service in the church sanctuary. 4/4/2015 11:00 AM 12:00 PM Visitation Hickory Grove Baptist Church Sanctuary Charlotte NC 28215 4/4/2015 12:00 PM Celebration of Life Hickory Grove Baptist Church 6050 Hickory Grove Road Charlotte NC 28215