Bette Reed

Please see scheduled service date and times below. 

Bette Elaine Reed, maiden name Barrino, 73, of Phoenix, Arizona, passed away on April 7, 2026.

Born on January 4, 1953, in Monroe, North Carolina, Bette was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend who touched the lives of many with her kindness and sense of humor. She spent her younger years in Monroe, North Carolina, and moved to Newburgh, New York, in her early teens. She attended South Junior High School, graduated from Newburgh Free Academy, and attended Mount Saint Mary’s College.

She married Bruce Washington and had three sons. She later married Rick Reed and moved her family to Italy, where her daughter, Athena, was born. She returned to the United States and settled in Schenectady, New York. She later moved to Virginia, where her sister Mary and her mother resided. In 2017, after several back-and-forth moves, she relocated permanently to Arizona to be closer to her children.

She is survived by her three sons, Bruce Washington (Tikeyshia), Michael Washington (Lori), and Terrance Washington; her grandchildren, Tashaun Murphy, Athena Washington, Michael Washington Jr., Christopher Washington, Isaiah Washington, Shaquanna Morton, Kyle Anderson, Deylon Northan, and Stephanie, Kayla, Tara and Tyra Thomas and Steven Hendrix; her sisters, Pauletta Williams and Ingrid Rushing; her brothers, Tyrone Williams (Kim), Anthony Williams, Darryl Jones Sr. (Fatimah), and John Rushing Jr.; her nieces, Kim Butler-Dennis (Perry), Kelly Butler-Noel (Carlos), Andrea Williamson Tiana Gardner (James), and Lauren Gaines, Darylisha, Nicole, Markeeta, Rickeasha; her nephews, James Graham (Rosa), Andre Williamson (Dionne),  William Gaines III, Ryan, and Jake and Matthew Ballash, Donavan and Darryl Jr. along with a host of great-nieces and great-nephews. She is also survived by her goddaughter, Altoniece Franklin; her great-grandchildren; and her good friends, Sally, Candy, Travis, and Keosha.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Caretha Barrino Williams; her father, John Lewis Rushing; her daughter, Athena Reed; and her sisters, Emmie Barrino and Mary Barrino Smith.

Elaine will be remembered for her infectious laugh, her feisty spirit, and her generous heart. She found great joy in spoiling her beloved dog, Socks, and in bringing laughter to those around her. Her presence was unforgettable, and the love she shared will continue to live through her family and all who knew her.

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