Elizabeth LeGrand File Reed passed away peacefully May 25, 2012 at the Ballentine, Norfolk, Va.
She was born in Beckley, W.Va., Dec. 15, 1921 to Addie Lanier File and William Henry File. She grew up in Beckley and enjoyed her extended family in Kentucky and Virginia. Elizabeth attended Madison College and graduated from the University of Kentucky where she was a member of Chi Omega Sorority.
She met Richard Courtney Reed while working as a nutritionist at the Medical College of Virginia. They married June 15, 1946 then moved to Norfolk and then Roanoke while Dick served in the United States Army Air Force. They finally settled in Norfolk in 1954 where they raised Richard and Bill. In 1988, they moved to North, Va., in Mathews County, where they enjoyed the company of Elizabeth’s sister Lanier and her husband Ed, many friendships and a beautiful home on the North River. They returned to Norfolk in 1998.
Early on, Elizabeth was active in Royster Memorial Presbyterian Church and more recently Second Presbyterian Church, Norfolk. She traveled with Dick to many destinations in Europe and the Orient and fondly recalled those memories. She was active in the "Culture Vultures Book Club," a docent at the Chrysler Museum and was a member of Royster Circle of The King’s Daughters.
She continued her travels to London and Paris with Bill’s family to visit Bill’s brother Dick. She did well at 81 negotiating the Tube, shopping and sightseeing. But she drew the line, with her cane raised to the clerk, on having to climb 12 stairs to reach the lift in the hotel. The desk clerk then realized, this would not do.
Many recall her warm hospitality, multiple interests and the many friendships she maintained to the end. She will be missed and remembered by many nieces, nephews and friends for her bright smile and engaging conversation.
Elizabeth was predeceased by her husband Dick; her sisters, Anne Louise File and Lanier Ratcliffe and brother, William Henry File Jr. She is survived by her sons, Richard Courtney Reed Jr. and his fiancée Elsa Nelson of Brighton, UK and William Washington Reed, MD and his wife Pam and their children Clark and Elizabeth.
Visitation was from 6-8 o’clock at Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home Tidewater Drive Chapel Monday evening May 28, 2012. A memorial service was at Second Presbyterian Church in Norfolk on Tuesday May 29, 2012 at 11 a.m. followed by a reception.
While Elizabeth would love for all to enjoy the beauty of flowers, she would be very pleased if these resources were donated to the church, Medi Home Hospice or a charity of choice.
A private graveside service will occur later.