Joan Reed

Southbury – Joan (Moeckel) Reed, 93, formerly of Middlebury, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, January 20, 2025, surrounded by her caregivers and her beloved cat, Daisy. Mrs. Reed was born November 22, 1931 in Waterbury, the daughter of the late Frederick and Helen (Swanson) Moeckel. Joan was the wife of the late Dr. David P. Reed, married in 1969.

Joan graduated from Naugatuck High School class of 1949. She went to Southern CT State University earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Teaching, with honors (cum laude). In February 1968, she began teaching math at Amity High School. Joan was a member of Naugatuck Women’s Study Club, serving as a past president. She was an active member of Hillside Covenant Church since 1946, serving in multiple leadership roles as Hi League counselor, treasurer and church chairperson. The Reeds had three exchange students from Scandinavia, each for a year, and also hosted youth workers from Hillside Church.

Joan was active in Middlebury Park and Recreation, and was instrumental in establishing Meadowview Park. She was involved at Middlebury Senior Center, Highfield and Tribury Tennis Club. Joan was active in the Waterbury Hospital Women’s Auxiliary for 30 years and served as a past president from 1982-1984.

Mrs. Reed and her husband believed in the importance of enhancing Waterbury Hospital and its Surgical Center. In 2005, after donating countless dollars and various fund-raising efforts, they established the Reed Cardiac Department. In 2014, the Reeds donated a million dollars to create the first teaching fellowship at the UCONN Waterbury Campus.

Mrs. Reed is survived by her “Swanson” cousins, as well as, countless “family” members at Hillside Covenant Church. She was predeceased by her brother, Fred “Bud” Moeckel.

A Memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at Hillside Covenant Church, 100 Hillside Avenue, Naugatuck. Burial will be at Grove Cemetery at the convenience of the family and there are no calling hours. The Alderson-Ford Funeral Home of Naugatuck is assisting with arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to Hillside Covenant Church Memorial Fund, 100 Hillside Avenue, Naugatuck, CT 06770.