Dorothy Fern (Whitford) Reed

Dorothy Fern Whitford-Reed, born on Sunday, December 8, 1929, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2023 in her home in Morgan Hill surrounded by loved ones. She was 93 years old.

Born in Plainview, Texas to parents Hollis and Lora Whitford, Dorothy spent her early years on a farm in the small town of Earth, Texas. The family relocated to Palo Alto, California in 1939 when Dorothy was 9 years old. She attended Palo Alto High School, graduating in 1947, and continued her education at San Jose State University. In 1951 she completed her Bachelor of Arts degree and teaching credential.

Dorothy met the love of her life, Charles Eugene Reed, at a young age and the childhood friends married after Charlie completed basic training in the US Army during the Korean War. The couple married on August 13, 1950 in Reno, Nevada. Charles was sent to Korea from 1950 to 1952 and Dorothy remained by his side until his return. The Reed's welcomed their children, Jane Kathryn in August of 1953, Nancy Louise in September of 1954, Michael Eugene in May of 1957, and Kimberly Fern in December of 1959. They also fostered a young man, William James, in 1976.

After establishing her family, Dorothy began a long and rewarding career as a primary school teacher. In 1962, Charles and Dorothy made their move to the small town of Morgan Hill and she taught at the historic Machado School, Paradise Valley Elementary School, and many others. Dorothy enriched the lives of countless Morgan Hill residents, teaching for over 30 years before her retirement.

Dorothy was a lifelong member of the Southern Baptist Church. She devoted her time spreading God's word and volunteering in the church community. In addition to her devotion to God, Dorothy was devoted to her family, her students, her local community, and the country she loved so much. She donated to causes like the local Holiday Food Drive & the Wounded Warrior Project. She was an honored member of the Morgan Hill Historical Society and the Machado School Heritage Society.

Dorothy's interest in travel and history took her all over the world. She enjoyed gardening, reading and was an avid sports fan! She attended countless sporting events for her own children, her grandchildren, and her great-grandchildren. Dorothy loved the game of baseball; a die-hard San Francisco Giants fan who rarely missed a game.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Charles, and her daughter, Jane. Dorothy is survived by her daughters, Nancy (Jim), Kimberly (Darrell), sons Michael (Debbie), William, 9 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. All of whom, loved and cherished her deeply.

Published in Morgan Hill Times · October 24, 2023