Kathy Reed (1955 - 2023)

Obituary

2018 Howard County Rec & Parks Sports Hall of Famer

Since 1999, Kathy Reed has done everything from organizing tournaments to coaching teams and negotiating with food vendors for Western Howard County’s baseball and softball programs. Kathy has worked tirelessly to bring a sense of community, fellowship and sportsmanship to each Saturday game day at Western Regional Park. Whether she’s working to ensure a player can afford to participate in a program or grilling hot dogs for hungry spectators at a game, Kathy’s nearly 20-year commitment to the program is unmistakable and astounding.

When asked of her proudest accomplishments or contributions to Howard County community sports, Reed listed working with her fellow volunteers to transition the Rec Softball Program from modified slow pitch to fast pitch, including the creation of player and coaching clinics in cooperation with high school and travel players. “The younger players got a kick out of being coached by the older girls in their fancy uniforms and those girls enjoyed the admiration from the little ones” said Reed.
Reed’s best memories of Western Howard County’s baseball and softball programs always center on the kids she’s spent time with as a coach, director or concession worker. She emphasizes how happy the program makes children, whether playing on the field or helping out on the sidelines. “They are so happy to help out – their delight made the task easier.” For Reed, it was a privilege to belong to an organization that provided children with so many opportunities.