Vanta Verldean Reed

Vanta Verldean Reed, affectionately known as "Dean," passed away peacefully at home in her sleep on August 18, 2026. Born on June 7, 1940, in Marietta, Oklahoma, to Mr. & Mrs. Boss Manning, Dean lived a life full of love, dedication, and warmth. Dean grew up in Marietta, where she graduated from Marietta High School in 1958. She went on to attend Marietta College. In Lewiston, on her 20th birthday, she married the love of her life, Whitman Larry Reed. The couple spent 57 cherished years together, raising two beautiful daughters, Rhonda and Cindy, and building a life rich with love and laughter. Dean was an avid cook and a dedicated homemaker. She started every day by reading all the newspapers and she enjoyed cheering on the Houston Rockets for over 30 years. Her life was a tapestry of kindness, compassion, and quiet strength. She loved to read a good book, shop, and never miss her weekly beauty shop appointment. Preceded in death by her husband, Whitman Reed, her daughters Rhonda and Cindy, and her parents and siblings. She is survived by her grandsons Seth Reed, Benjamin Skinner and Joshua Kenney. In honor of Dean's generous spirit, the family requests that donations be made to the Humane Society of Southeast Texas or the Southeast Texas Food Bank, reflecting her lifelong commitment to kindness and community. Her bright light will continue to shine in the memories and hearts of those who knew and loved her.