Barry L. Reed

CHELSEA—Barry L. Reed, 54, of Chelsea, formerly of Athol, Mass., died Thursday, March 22, 2007 at Kindred Hospital-Park View in Springfield, Mass.

He was born in Athol, Mass., September 6, 1952, the son of Joseph and Louise (Cooley) Reed. He grew up in Athol, attended Athol Schools and graduated from Smith Vocational School in Northampton, Mass., majoring in agriculture. For the past 10 years, he lived in Chelsea.

He worked for the Town of Athol, Department of Public Works for 20 years as a foreman, and had also worked at the Arthur Coolidge Farm and the Robert Perkins Farm in Petersham for many years. While living in Chelsea, he worked for several people in the area. He loved hunting and fishing and had a great love for animals, especially dogs and cows.

Survivors include his long-time companion, Laurie Pickett of Chelsea; a brother, Steven Reed and his wife, Grace, of Athol, Mass.; and several aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, March 28 at the Higgins-O’Connor Funeral Home in Athol, Mass., with the Rev. Harold V. Lloyd, Jr., pastor of the Athol Congregational Church, officiating. Burial followed at Highland Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to: Athol Animal Shelter, c/o Athol Police Dept., 584 Main St., Athol, Mass. 01331. For further information or to send family condolences go to www.higgins oconnorfuneralhome.com.

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