Reba “Sue” Reed died on April 22, 2026, aged 85, after a lengthy struggle with Alzheimer’s.

Born Feb. 5, 1941 to Delbert and Mary Elva English in Dexter, New Mexico, Sue was one of 12 siblings. She was the sixth child, and her middle child’s place determined her spirit and personality in life.

Sue graduated from Dexter High School, where she was not only a cheerleader but also honored as Beauty Queen and Basketball Princess. She played clarinet in the marching band. Sue was a proud Dexter Demon.

Sue was a loving, loyal partner to her husband Kurt Reed for 62 years marrying in 1962. Sue and Kurt moved to Santa Barbara in 1966 and raised their family.

Sue continued her commitment to education by returning to study at SBCC after her children were raised. She was a bookkeeper at Aiello’s Market and later worked for many years in UCSB’s billing department before retiring.

Sue is preceded in death by her husband Kurt Reed; three sisters Nona, Evelyn and Glenda; and three brothers Bill, Kenneth and Truman; and her parents.

She is survived by daughters Stormy Esp (Wayne), Shea Soto (Stan); son Logan Reed; grandchildren Jason Esp (Christina), Krystal Garcia, Matthew Soto, Nolan Soto, Michelle Esp; great-grandchildren Isabella, Dylan and Cali; sisters Melba and Jacque; brothers Jerry, Dale and Bobby Dean.

Sue had a huge extended family of brothers and sisters-in-law, nephews and nieces.

Those who knew her will remember Sue for her smile, humor, compassion, and her big heart.

Sue was a fantastic cook and loved to host family get togethers. Sue loved watching her grandchildren play golf, baseball, football, and cheerleading. She enthusiastically supported every team, and her cheers of “woo, woo” echoed from the stands.

Sue was an extraordinary person, she cared deeply for those she loved and was an ideal friend, partner, or acquaintance. Sue was the wife, mother and friend we should all aspire to be.

There will be a small family gathering in the future to celebrate Sue’s life.

Please donate to the Alzheimer’s Association or Central Coast Hospice in honor of Sue if you choose.

Mothers hold their children’s hands temporarily, but they hold their hearts forever.