Charleston Bids Farewell to Automotive Visionary Eugene Reed, Jr.

News Summary

The Charleston community is mourning the loss of Eugene ‘Gene’ Reed, Jr., an esteemed automotive leader and philanthropist who passed away at the age of 87. Reed’s impact on the automotive industry and local community was profound; from founding multiple dealerships to extensive philanthropic work, his legacy will be remembered for generations. His dedication to customer service and commitment to bettering Charleston left a lasting mark that will inspire future leaders.

Charleston Says Goodbye to Automotive Icon Eugene Reed, Jr.

Charleston, South Carolina, is mourning the loss of a local legend, Eugene “Gene” Reed, Jr., who passed away at the impressive age of 87. Reed was not just a name in the automotive industry; he was a true leader and a beloved figure in the Charleston community. His vast contributions to the automotive world and beyond will surely be remembered for many years to come.

From Humble Beginnings to Automotive Greatness

Born in the small town of Dyersburg, Tennessee, in 1937, Reed’s journey began with a solid education. He graduated from Memphis State University in 1963 and soon dove headfirst into the automotive business, securing a position at Chrysler Automotive shortly after his studies. This marked the start of a remarkable career that would span several decades.

In the mid-1970s, Reed fulfilled his entrepreneurial dreams by purchasing his first dealership, a Dodge franchise located in Spartanburg, South Carolina. But that was just the beginning! By the 1980s, he expanded his horizons and opened a Chevrolet dealership on Dorchester Road in Charleston. No one could have predicted the heights he would reach!

A Legacy of Expansion

Gene Reed didn’t stop at Chevrolet. Over the years, he branched out, establishing franchises for a multitude of well-known brands including Chrysler, Mitsubishi, Toyota, Lexus, Range Rover, Honda, Jaguar, and Mercedes. If you ever watched local TV, you might remember his memorable commercials for ‘Gene Reed Toyota,’ featuring the unforgettable charisma of actor Tim Jones. Those commercials connected with the community and showcased Reed’s passion for service.

Putting Customers First

According to his online obituary, Reed’s primary business philosophy centered around one golden rule: putting the customer first. This commitment to customer service resonated with the people of Charleston and solidified his reputation as a trustworthy and caring businessman.

A Heart for the Community

His commitment to education and healthcare was equally notable. Reed funded scholarships at both the College of Charleston and Trident Technical College, paving the way for local students’ futures. He also generously supported the American Cancer Society, funding remarkable projects such as the Gene Reed Hope Lodge, which offers free housing for cancer patients seeking treatment in Charleston.

A Lasting Impact

In recent years, Reed continued to give back, making substantial donations to the MUSC Children’s Hospital, the Gaillard Center, and the Darkness to Light organization, showcasing his unwavering dedication to his community.

For his numerous contributions, he was awarded The Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor, a feat that underscores his impact on the state and the lives he touched.

In Final Rest

Reed took his final breath at Roper Hospital in Charleston, leaving behind a legacy that is sure to inspire future generations. For those who wish to honor his memory, memorials can be made to the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital through the MUSC Foundation, ensuring that his spirit of giving continues even after his passing.

Gene Reed, Jr. was more than just a businessman; he was a stalwart of the Charleston community, and his memory will forever warm the hearts of those he served. His dedication to his customers, his philanthropy, and his enthusiastic personality will certainly be missed by many.

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Additional Resources

• News Source: Count On 2
• Wikipedia: Eugene Reed
• News Source: Charleston Business
• Google Search: Gene Reed Charleston
• News Source: ABC News 4
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Automotive Industry
• News Source: Count On 2
• Google News: Charleston News