Dennis Wayne Reed, veteran, one of a kind

Dennis Wayne Reed, 75, of Milton, passed away peacefully Sunday, April 20, 2025, at his beloved home away from home in Hobe Sound, Fla.

Born Oct. 9, 1949, in Milford, Dennis was the son of the late Frederick E. Reed and Rose Tribbitt Reed.

Dennis proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force from 1969 until his honorable discharge in 1973. His military service was a lifelong source of pride.

Following his active-duty years, Dennis devoted the majority of his career to Dover Air Force Base, working as a crew chief from 1986 to 2009. He was honored with the prestigious Crew Chief of the Year award in 2005. Dennis often said he loved his job, and it showed—he looked forward to going to work every day. His career and military service took him around the world, visiting nearly 30 countries.

Earlier in his professional life, Dennis worked at Milton Service Center (1973–80) and I.G. Burton Chevrolet in Milford (1980–86).

In 1999, Dennis earned both his FAA private pilot’s license and an associate’s degree in aircraft maintenance technology, accomplishments that brought him immense pride. He enjoyed flying light aircraft and also had a passion for snow skiing, fishing, and golf. Most of all, Dennis loved spending time with his family and his many friends. He especially cherished moments with his grandchildren.

A proud Master Mason, Dennis lived with integrity, enthusiasm, and an unforgettable sense of humor. His laugh was truly one of a kind—you always knew when he had arrived. He was the kind of person everyone loved being around.

Dennis is survived by his daughter, Nicole Anderson and her husband Scot; and his two beloved grandchildren, Elle and Hank, all of Lewes.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial service will be held at noon, Thursday, May 15, at Short Funeral Services chapel, 416 Federal St., Milton. A time of visitation for family and friends will be from 10 a.m. to noon.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in memory of Dennis to AMVETS, 3309-11 Hubbard Road, Hyattsville, MD 20785, amvets.org.

Online condolences are welcome for the family at shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com.