Scarlett Leigh Reeder Obituary May 22, 2026 | Raleigh, NC
Scarlett Leigh Reeder, 76, of Raleigh, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 22, 2026.
Scarlett Leigh Reeder, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, entered into eternal rest on May 22, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Known for her vibrant personality, warm smile, creative spirit, and deep faith, Scarlett lived a life filled with love, kindness, and joyful service to others. She will be remembered as a woman who brought beauty, laughter, and grace into every space she entered.
A Life Well Lived
Scarlett Leigh Reeder was born on April 18, 1950, in Raleigh, North Carolina. She grew up in a loving family that nurtured her artistic talents and strong Christian values. After graduating from Broughton High School, Scarlett attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where she earned a degree in Art Education.
She enjoyed a fulfilling career as an elementary school art teacher in the Wake County Public School System for over 34 years. Scarlett inspired countless students with her creativity, patience, and encouragement, helping young minds discover the joy of self-expression through painting, drawing, and crafts. Many former students still recall her colorful classroom and the way she made every child feel talented and valued. She retired in 2015 but continued sharing her love of art through community workshops and church programs.
In 1972, Scarlett married the love of her life, James Michael Reeder. Together they built a beautiful home filled with love, creativity, and faith. She was a longtime active member of Christ Episcopal Church in Raleigh, where she served in the altar guild, directed children’s programs, and created beautiful floral arrangements for services. Scarlett had a passion for gardening, painting, reading, and hosting elegant dinner parties. Her homemade lemon cake and beautifully decorated tables were highlights at family celebrations.
Above all, Scarlett found her greatest joy in her family. She was the proud grandmother who attended every school event, art show, and sports game with enthusiasm and pride.
Surviving Family Members
Scarlett is survived by her devoted husband of 54 years, James Michael Reeder of Raleigh; her children: daughter Lauren (David) Thompson of Durham, North Carolina, and son Matthew (Emily) Reeder of Cary, North Carolina; her cherished grandchildren: Emma, Sophia, and Grace Thompson, and Jackson and Harper Reeder; and many loving siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Elizabeth Leigh, and her sister, Margaret Leigh Thompson.
Funeral Details and Arrangements
A Celebration of Life service for Scarlett Leigh Reeder will be held on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Christ Episcopal Church in Raleigh, with Reverend Thomas Whitaker officiating. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, May 26, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Brown-Wynne Funeral Home – Raleigh.
Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. Pallbearers will include her son, son-in-law, and grandsons.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Christ Episcopal Church’s Children’s Ministry or to the local Arts Council in Scarlett’s loving memory.
A Heartfelt Tribute
Scarlett Leigh Reeder was a woman who lived life in full color. She saw beauty in everything and helped others see it too. With a gentle touch and creative heart, she filled her home and community with joy, art, and love. As a wife, she was a devoted partner and best friend. As a mother and grandmother, she was encouraging, playful, and always ready to nurture dreams and celebrate accomplishments.
She taught her family the importance of faith, creativity, kindness, and finding joy in everyday moments. Her warm hugs, beautiful laughter, artistic spirit, and peaceful presence made every gathering brighter. Scarlett faced life’s challenges with grace and an unshakable trust in God, always choosing hope, love, and gratitude.
Though our hearts ache with her passing, we find comfort knowing Scarlett has gone home to her Heavenly Father, where she is surrounded by eternal beauty and reunited with loved ones who went before her. Her legacy of love, creativity, and faith will continue to bloom through her family and all the lives she so beautifully touched.
Condolences and Guestbook
The Reeder family warmly invites relatives, friends, former colleagues, and church members to share memories, stories, and words of comfort in the guestbook below. These tributes will be treasured as the family celebrates Scarlett’s beautiful life and finds strength during this time of sorrow.
