Leo Augustine Reed, Jr.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Leo A. Reed, Jr. on April 6, 2023.  Leo was known by family member as “Big L”  Leo is survived by his wife, Susan, a son Leo A. Reed III, and a daughter, Melissa and her husband Michael Fay. Leo was the proud grandfather to three grandkids, Griffin and Harrison Reed and Chloe Fay.  Originally from West Roxbury and Norwell Massachusetts, Leo and Susan moved to Chapel Hill, NC. in 2011.  Leo was a private and quiet person, but also very witty and fun! He was fearless and independent, yet sensitive and incredibly compassionate. He loved the beach, vacations, travel, and golf with friends.  He was a devoted father and grandfather who his children were affectionately known, as Little Leo and Lissa.   He looked forward to visits from his grandkids and instilled in them a love for family.  He had an amazing memory and told entertaining stories, sometimes with a hint of exaggeration.  Even in his last few days, he told stories from throughout his life.  Leo graduated from Boston College with a degree in Finance. He continued his education at Suffolk University Law School graduating with a Juris Doctor Degree.  His career path started as an Assistant Attorney General in Boston MA. in 1967. From 1974 to retirement, he was General Counsel and Executive Vice President of the New England Mechanical Contractors Association.  In this position, his responsibilities included all labor relations issues, negotiation of labor contracts, dispute resolution, and mediation.

Leo had many special friends who were very supportive of him throughout his illness. Leo was loved by all.  He will be deeply missed but he is forever in our hearts.  Family and friends are welcome to attend a celebration of life, which will be held at Newman Catholic Center on Saturday, April 15 at 10:30am. Newman Center is located at 218 Pittsboro Street, Chapel Hill, NC 27516.  Memorial donations may be made to the Duke Institute Cancer Fund. http://www.dukecancerinstitute.org. Donaldson Funeral Home & Cremation is honored to serve the Reed family.  Memorial tributes can be left on this website Tribute Wall.