John Malcolm Reed

John Malcolm Reed, Jr., 71, died unexpectedly April 14, 2018 in Dallas, Texas. Born in Dallas on December 13, 1946, he was the son of John M. Reed, Sr., longtime SMU professor, and Joyce Anita (Cotten) Reed Clarkson.

John graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1964. He received both a Bachelors and a Masters degree in Business Administration from Southern Methodist University. While serving in the US Marine Corps in Viet Nam, he sustained injuries for which he received a Purple Heart. John was a lifelong supporter of veterans' causes, receiving many local and national awards for his services. For many years he was an international stock trader with Capital Institutional Services.

Inheriting a passion for games and dancing from his mother, John became a very accomplished chess and bridge player at an early age. He played competitive bridge during his college years and became a Bridge Master level player while at SMU. Johnny taught country/western dance for years at many local clubs, including the legendary Longhorn Ballroom (his favorite), successfully operating his own dance studio for several years.

He loved playing basketball, a sport that he began playing in Jr. High and High School. John continued playing throughout his life in various leagues and gyms in Dallas well into his early 50’s. He was known for his deadly accurate left-handed jump shot from 15 feet which he seldom missed.

John was an avid collector of many things: books, fantasy figurines, chess sets, music recordings from the 50s and 60s, etc. He was approximately ¾ of the through the process of digitizing his vast collection of VHS tapes and had just begun doing the same with his extensive music collection of LP’s, 45’s & 78’s..

Later in life, he was an active supporter of animal welfare efforts, particularly feral cat rescue and rehabilitation. Johnny was always available to help friends and family. He loved to laugh and tell jokes and especially loved sharing them with family and friends via cards and e-mail. He never forgot a birthday or anniversary and for many years gave homemade cookies to family and friends for Christmas..

John was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his brother, Michael Clarkson, sister in law, Renee Clarkson, his niece, Hannah Joy Clarkson, his nephew, Zachary Aaron Clarkson, and a large extended family of cousins and friends. A private family graveside service and a separate celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in his name to the SPCA or the Wounded Warrior Project are suggested.