In Loving Memory of Dale Reed

June 22, 1962 – September 24, 2026

Clinton “Dale” Reed passed away unexpectedly on September 24, 2026, at the age of 64. He was born in Tulare, California, on June 22, 1962, but spent his childhood in Oklahoma, where he made many of his earliest memories.

Dale started working at a young age, picking peanuts during his early grade-school years and later working in the oil fields. After moving to California, he spent more than 30 years as a truck driver. The road became a big part of his life, giving him the opportunity to meet people, make friends, reconnect with old ones, and collect plenty of stories along the way. After retiring from trucking, Dale returned to Oklahoma and became a bus driver in El Reno, continuing to enjoy being around people and staying connected to his community.

Dale shared the last eight years of his life with his wife, Melissa. Together, they built a life between Texas and Oklahoma filled with laughter, good food, adventures, and memories. Melissa was his wife, his partner, and an important part of his life. She also introduced him to college football and spent plenty of time trying to convert him into an Alabama fan. Dale may not have fully converted, but the two of them certainly had fun with it. Their years together will always be cherished.

His daughters, Natasha and Krista, were two of the greatest loves of his life. He was incredibly proud to be their dad and loved nothing more than being part of their lives. He loved his girls fiercely, teased them relentlessly, and treasured every memory they made together. He was a young soul, so he was always a fun dad to be around. He took very little seriously, except his family.

Becoming a grandpa brought Dale a whole new kind of joy and youth. He absolutely adored Kaulyn and Brooks and especially looked forward to the school breaks they spent together. Their time together was filled with trips to Braum’s for their favorite ice cream, sitting poolside, and finding a new adventure wherever they could. Those simple days together became some of his favorite memories.

Dale had a personality all his own. He loved to joke, give people a hard time, and make them laugh. You often knew he was nearby before you saw him—you could hear him whistling. He was a huge Green Bay Packers fan, loved classic cars and fishing, and was always up for a good BBQ or grilling competition with his son-in-law, Jordan. He was also a true foodie who loved trying new recipes and discovering new restaurants.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents, father C.L. (Wanda) Reed and mother Dee Reed. He is survived by his wife, Melissa Reed; daughters, Natasha Reed and Krista (Jordan) McNeill; grandchildren, Kaulyn McNeill and Brooks McNeill; brother, Darrell (Vicki) Reed; and many loving family members and friends.

Dale will be deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved him. We will miss his laugh, his stories, his whistle, his Packers commentary, and all the little things that made him who he was.

Until we meet again. We love you.