The Ellett Memorial Hospital family mourns the passing of a beloved physician, friend and family member, Dr. Glen H. Reed. We extend our deepest sympathies to his children, his dear friend Donna Hughes, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Dr. Reed, along with Dr. Ellett and Dr. Brownsberger, were the heart and soul of this hospital. Dr. Reed was an ever constant presence and was key in keeping Ellett Memorial Hospital open through several years of hardship. Dr. Reed was the sole physician during much of those difficult times, but he helped us persevere through this dire period and helped us to remain open and thrive, ensuring that this community continued to receive a healthcare clinic as well as a much needed Ambulance Service, Emergency Room and Hospital.
Dr. Reed was born west of Appleton City in Rural Bates County Missouri. He attended Appleton Schools and graduated in 1951. He received a Curator scholarship but was unable to attend University until 1955. At that time, he attended the University of Missouri Columbia and graduated in 1959 with a BA. He then attended University of Missouri Columbia Medical School and graduated in 1963. Dr. Reed then did his Internship at Kansas City General Hospital, which is now University Health Truman Medical Center. He also started his surgical Residency at Kansas City General Hospital. Dr. Reed returned to Appleton City to practice medicine for six months. In 1966, he enlisted in the Naval Flight Surgery Program. He was stationed in Pensacola for six months and then was transferred to Beaville, Texas, and was later stationed at Whidby Island as a Senior Flight Surgeon. In 1969, Dr. Reed was discharged from active duty as a Lieutenant Commander. He was honorably discharged from the reserves in 1975.
In 1956, Dr. Reed married Sharon Ilene O’Rear. Their son, Marc, was born in 1957. Daughters Stephanie and Onna were born in 1962 and 1966 respectively.
In 1969, Dr. Reed and his family moved to Osceola, Missouri, where he practiced medicine for two years. Dr. Reed then moved back to Appleton City in August 1972 to practice medicine at the Old Ellett Hospital and then at the new Hospital.
Dr. Reed was one of the organizers if the Colonial Manor Nursing Home and also served as a member of the Board. In the early 1990’s, Dr. Reed, Marc Reed, and Dr. Wayne Morton purchased the nursing home and renamed it Appleton City Manor Nursing Home.
Dr. Reed and his family were members of the Trinity United Methodist. In his later years, he attended Valley Center Church of Christ in rural Lowry City, Missouri. Dr. Reed was also a former member of the Optimist Club and the Masonic Lodge.
Sharon Passed away February 2002. Dr. Reed remained in Appleton City and continued to run his business and his farm. Even after his retirement, Dr. Reed would check in every morning during his morning walk—always keeping us on our toes.
Godspeed, Dr. Reed. We will miss you, and we will strive to maintain the high bar of excellence you set, and we will forever continue your work for next 60 years and beyond.
