George Reed service marked by Motown, milkshakes and community

Rider Nation went the extra mile to close a chapter on a life well lived with a celebration of life for George Reed on Friday afternoon.

Hundreds of seats filled with fans and friends wearing green, many sporting jerseys with Reed and the number 34 on the back, while George’s favourite Motown played over the speakers.

Screens at Regina’s International Trade Centre displayed pictures of Reed, not just in his heyday but also later in life, when giving back to the community seemed to be his full-time job.

Saturday will be proclaimed George Reed Day in Saskatchewan to remember and mark all the good Reed did in Saskatchewan. (980 CJME)

The Grey Cup adorned the stage where CFL leaders, friends and family spoke to the crowd.

“He was so kind and tireless to countless fans who wanted to meet him and generous to so many causes that sought him out, ” said CFL Commissioner Randy Ambroise. “George’s activities in relating to this community and his commitment to this community are the stuff of legends.”

Those closest to Reed spoke of his endearing love of food and nicotine.

Friend Eric Johnson shared how the CFL legend spent countless hours at his restaurant, Smokin’ Okies BBQ, in Regina.

“He learned how to trim and prep brisket, pork, ribs, chicken. But the only thing I ever saw him smoke was a cigarette, and we sure didn’t teach him that,” said Eric Johnson.

His daughter, Georgette Reed, shared how her father loved vanilla milkshakes and hoped he had one wherever he was now.

“You all knew him as George. To me and Keith and Vicky, he was just Dad, ” she said.

Georgette added she isn’t hoping he rests in peace, “I actually hope that he’s up there with Ronnie (Lancaster), having a cigarette and just talking about football and talking about all the things that we should be doing.”

Attendees signed their condolences and were asked to donate to the George Reed Legacy Fund in lieu of flowers.

Georgette Reed says her father loved his work and helped out many charities, but was always there at her swim meets. She spoke as the premier proclaimed the coming Saturday, George Reed Day. Oct. 5, 2023 (Lisa Schick/980 CJME)

Ten speakers shared remarks during the two-hour event.

1. Elected Official: Scott Moe, Premier of Saskatchewan
2. Elected Official: Brad Wall, Former Premier of Saskatchewan
3. CFL: Randy Ambrosie: 14th Commissioner of the CFL and CFL Alumni
4. #34 Foundation: Darren Mitchel, Board Member George Reed Foundation
5. Player: Cleveland Van: CFL Alumni and close friend
6. CFLPA: Greg Fieger, Vice President CFL Players Association and CFL alumni
7. SRFC: Jim Hopson, Past President and CEO of the Saskatchewan Roughriders
8. Employment: Twyla Meredith, Past President and CEO Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation
9. Friend: Eric Johnson, Owner of Smokin’ Okies BBQ and best buddy
10. Family: Georgette Reed, Daughter

I'm reporting on the celebration of life today for George Reed. The doors opened at 11:30 and there are only a few dozen people here so far, most wearing their Rider green. pic.twitter.com/oR1qdSxbjc

— Lisa Schick (@LMSchickler) October 6, 2023