Reed retired in January of 2017 after a distinguished career spanning 30 years with the Department of Transportation. His commitment to his work was matched only by his quick wit and joyful spirit; he was well known for playing pranks and bringing smiles to those around him. Beyond his professional life, Reed was a dedicated man of faith who faithfully served his church, Wausau Assembly of God, as both a member and a Deacon. His faith in Jesus was the foundation of his life, and it was evident to all who knew him that the only thing he loved more than his family was his Lord.
In addition to his deep spiritual commitments, Reed was a passionate outdoorsman who cherished time spent camping and fishing with his beloved wife Brenda Syfrett Walsingham, to whom he was married for 55 years. He delighted in hunting and was an avid collector of Hot Wheels antique cars, treasures that reflected his playful nature. Reed’s heart was especially tender towards his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, with whom he shared countless memorable moments. He was also a proud veteran of the Army National Guard, a testament to his lifelong dedication to service.
Reed’s survivors include his devoted wife Brenda Syfrett Walsingham of Wausau, Florida; his sons John Walsingham and wife Cindy of Bonifay, Florida, and Eric Walsingham and wife Donna of Westville, Florida; his brother Ronnie Walsingham and wife Wendy of Panama City, Florida; his brother Ken Walsingham and wife Theresa of Red Level, Alabama; and his sister Joan Seiffert and husband Billy of Wausau, Florida. He was a cherished grandfather to Taylor Pippin and husband Lance of Bonifay, Florida; Linzzie Stafford and husband Hunter of Westville, Florida; Kelcie Walsingham of Tallahassee, Florida; and Hunter Walsingham and wife Alison of Chipley, Florida. Reed’s love extended warmly to his great-grandchildren Braylynn, Riverlynn, Brentley, Kensley, and Alyssa. David and Sandy Riley, Reed and Brenda’s Best Friends and Favorite Camping Buddies.
John Reed Walsingham was preceded in death by his parents, J.G. and Carmel Walsingham. His legacy of love, laughter, faith, and friendship remains alive in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know him.
A Funeral Service to honor John Reed Walsingham’s life will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 11:00 A.M. at Wausau Assembly of God, located at 3537 Washington Street, Wausau, Florida. A visitation will be held 10:00 to 11:00 A.M. prior to the service. Interment will follow in the Wausau Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
All who knew Reed are invited to join in remembering a man whose genuine spirit touched so many lives. In this time of loss, the family asks for prayers and remembrance as they commemorate a life well lived, full of love, faith, and joy.
Brown Funeral Home & Blue Lake Crematory of Chipley, FL is in charge of arrangements.
