Earl Reeder

Earl Thomas Reeder, beloved husband, brother, father, grandfather, educator, and friend, passed away on April 5, 2025, at the age of 81. Earl was born and raised in Miami Shores, Florida, where he attended Miami Edison High School and served as chaplain for the band. A gifted musician, he performed with the Miami Youth Orchestra. He played the baritone, tuba, organ, and string bass with great passion and skill. After high school, he attended Troy State University, where he studied both music and math and met his first wife, Nita. Shortly after they married, they moved to Kissimmee, where they later welcomed their daughter, Renée. A lifelong learner and passionate educator, Earl dedicated 16 years to teaching mathematics at Osceola High School before moving into district leadership. At the county office, he rose to become Director of Planning and Evaluation, where he played a vital role in districting, state assessments, and teacher certification. Earl was a trusted mentor and resource for an entire generation of teachers and administrators. He served as chief negotiator and president of the Osceola County Teachers Association (OCTA), advocating for his colleagues both locally and at the state level. His commitment to education extended to Tallahassee, where he served on statewide committees, lending his voice and expertise to shape educational policy. It was on one such trip that he first met his second wife and the love of his life, Jane. Earl also found great joy in philately. What began in 1977 as a side business quickly grew into a lifelong pursuit. Early on, he and Nita—often with young Renée in tow—traveled across the state and region attending stamp shows, where his passion for stamps blossomed into a second career. These trips were more than business; they were opportunities to connect with fellow collectors, share knowledge, and build lasting friendships within the stamp community. Eventually, Earl co-founded A&R Stamp and Coin at American Plaza with his friend and business partner, Ann Fettig. The shop became a beloved hub for local collectors and a reflection of Earl’s dedication to the hobby he loved. Over the years, he also served multiple terms as bourse chair and president of the Florida Stamp Dealers Association (FSDA), leaving a lasting impact on the philatelic world. After Earl and Nita went their separate ways, he and Jane found their way together and shared a beautiful life filled with adventure, laughter, and deep companionship. They loved traveling with Jane’s cousin, Sharon Ann, and her husband, Dave—taking cruises and visiting Las Vegas. After retiring from the school district, Earl and Jane continued to travel the country for stamp shows, building memories and friendships along the way. These journeys were a meaningful part of their life together, blending shared passion and connection. In his final years and during his prolonged illness, Jane was Earl’s steadfast companion and tireless caregiver. Family was always at the heart of Earl’s life. He was a constant and loving presence in the lives of his daughter, Renée, and granddaughter, Rachel, offering encouragement and quiet strength through life’s challenges. He took immense pride in Renée’s accomplishments—not only as a Professor of Optometry but also as Dean—and celebrated the leadership and impact she continues to make in higher education. He was equally proud of Rachel, who is following in his footsteps by pursuing a career in teaching—a legacy that reflects Earl’s lifelong dedication to education. Some of his most treasured moments were spent at Jane and Earl’s home in North Carolina, especially when all four of them—Earl, Jane, Renée, and Rachel—were together, especially at Thanksgiving. Earl was preceded in death by his parents, Eleanor and James G. Reeder, and his brothers, James A. and Glen. He is survived by his devoted wife of 26 years, Jane Davison; his sisters, Nadine and Nadette (Dave); his nieces, Ashley and Brittany; his nephews, Ben and Michael; his daughter, Renée; and his cherished granddaughter, Rachel. Earl’s life was marked by service, passion, generosity, and a deep love for his family and community. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the honor of knowing him. In honor of his passion for education and in lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Earl T. Reeder Memorial Award at the Kentucky College of Optometry, 147 Sycamore Street, Pikeville, Kentucky 41501. To make a memorial donation online, please visit www.upike.edu/giving. A viewing will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, April 14, 2025, followed by a funeral service at 11:30 am both at Osceola Memory Gardens, located 1717 Old Boggy Creek Road in Kissimmee. All who knew and loved Earl are welcome

Earl Reeder

June 7, 1943 - April 5, 2025