Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Took a moment today and stopped at the memorial signs on the bridge over the Steinhatchee River to remember my friend, classmate and Fallen Hero. I lost 4 other Fallen Heroes who were killed in the line of duty. It brought me joy that this local community has not forgotten you Chad. The memorial signs have been well maintained and are still prominently displayed. You served your community with honor and your life. They have not forgotten you Chad.

SAC (Retired) Jay Etheridge
Fla Dept of Law Enforcement

July 21, 2024

It’s been a while Chad , you are still on my mind; and when I see Caden at the feed store, I see you ! You are missed and always will be. I’m still chugging away, back at the S.O. Once retired, and still serving as a SRD/SRO. Thank you for your friendship and leadership!
Deputy Cp Hart

Deputy C.P.Hart
Dixie SO

February 5, 2024

Lord Jesus, as we watch America’s Peace Officers succumb to the wicked and evil in this world, Shot and Killed in the Line-of-Duty, it becomes difficult for us to pick up and move forward. Our communities are on the brink of exploding with tension. In light of the peace officers who are no longer with us, I pray for endurance for our communities and law enforcement agencies. Carry us through this time of strife, that through our struggles, our bonds may grow even more unbreakable. In Your mighty and holy name, I pray. Amen.

Holy Scriptures on Law Enforcement’s Mission:

“For the policeman [peace officer] does not frighten people who are doing right; but those doing evil will always fear him. So if you don’t want to be afraid, keep the laws and you will get along well. The policeman [peace officer] is sent by God to help you. But if you are doing something wrong, of course you should be afraid, for he [the peace officer] will have you punished. He [the peace officer] is sent by God for that very purpose. Obey the laws, then, for two reasons: first, to keep from being punished, and second, just because you know you should.” [Romans 13:3-5 TLB]

[Jesus Said,] “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” [John 15:13 ESV]

And he [Jesus] said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” [Luke 23:43 ESV]

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons [children] of God.” [Matthew 5:9 ESV]

“And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.” [Isaiah 6:8 ESV]

Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA, FCPO-USA
Ordained Christian Global Outreach Minister No. 36526
The Badge 183 Peacemakers Prayer Ministry

January 11, 2024

Chad you are missed and you are never forgotten !

Deputy CP Hart / School Resource Unit
DCSO

January 14, 2023

Captain Reed, rest in peace.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

January 14, 2020

Capt. Reed,
On today, the 10th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Dixie County. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

January 14, 2020

John 5:28, 29 - "Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out". I pray that everyone can find peace in knowing that we will see this officer as well as many others again in Paradise soon. Until then, please accept my condolences.

A.W. Montgomery
Concerned Citizen

October 5, 2018

Today marks your 41st birthday on earth and your 8th in heaven. It still baffles me that I will never hear your voice again on this earth, but I truly believe that I will see you again in heaven. God promises if we are saved by His grace, then we will spend eternity in heaven with Him. That gives me the reassurance to know we will see you again! Your legacy lives on in our boys. I can see you in them every day...they have grown so much over the last 7.5 years. CJ is a junior in high school, Caden in 7th grade...doing great in school and playing sports! They both say they want to be LEO’s...I pray for their safety and for them to pursue their passion. If working as an LEO is their hearts desire, then I will support them 110%, just as I supported you. We have created a “new normal” for ourselves, but we continue to miss you every day. Our lives will never be complete bcz you are not here with us, but we know you are always in our hearts.......Our Hero...Forever In Our Hearts...#54-6

Your loving wife Holly Reed-Stemple
Dixie Co S.O.

September 24, 2017

7 years today; You are always on my mind and never far from my thoughts.
God Bless and God Speed Brother!
54-6 Never Forget!
Sincerely
Sarge CP
DCSO 2006-2015

Officer C.P. Hart
Cross City Police Department

January 14, 2017

Happy Birthday Chad ! I miss you my brother.
Not a day goes by when you are not on my mind.
Even though my uniform has changed you will forever be MY Captain.
(Sarge) DCSO 2006-2015
54-6 Never Forget!

OFFICER C.P. HART
Cross City Police Department -Florida

September 24, 2016

The Sheriffs of Florida and their deputies will never forget the sacrifice you and your family made to uphold our laws and protect society.

Your name has been inscribed on the Florida Sheriffs and the National Law Enforcement Memorial and in our hearts. May you forever rest in peace.

A scripture inscribed on the Florida Sheriffs Law Enforcement Memorial:

"Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they shall be called the children
of God." Matthew 5:9

Executive Director, Florida Sheriffs Ass
Florida Sheriffs Association

August 7, 2016

Chad, You are Never Forgotten
Deuteronomy 31:6

Officer C.P.Hart / Patrol
Cross City Police Dept. / Former DCSO Sgt.

April 14, 2016

Stay strong Holly, you are an inspiration. You epitomize the incredible strength of the human spirit. All of us in the law -enforcement community pray for you and your boys, and will never forget Captain Chad Allen Reed.

Sgt NYPD
NYPD

January 13, 2015

Well, it's been a while since I have visited this page, but never a day I don't think about you and miss you. Today, I am in Kansas City, Missouri at a training with COPS learning how to approach new survivors, what to say, what NOT to say and how I can help. I would never have guessed I would be where I am today on January 14, 2010, but due to circumstances out of my control I became a "survivor". Didn't know about COPS or what they did, but this non-profit organization has taught me more about how to live again and that it's ok to be happy. We have moved forward in life taking our precious memories with us. You know no matter what that I will always love you, but since you aren't here I needed someone mad God sent me Kenny. I have a feeling you helped pick him out because most men can't deal with the idea of even considering dating or marrying a widow with kids. Kenny has been a true blessing to us and he loves and supports us even on our bad days.

I have started reaching out and meeting new widows to try and give them someone to talk to...and I have met some amazing people on this journey of life. The boys are growing up so fast. CJ is as tall as I am and Caden is you made over. Both are playing ball and staying busy. Life is busy! I have returned to school and should graduate in December! Finally finishing my dream! Life will never be what it was, but life is good. We continue to love and miss you each day, but you will forever be in our hearts.

1437...54-6...Forever in our hearts...

Always, Holly Reed-Stemple
Widow

March 9, 2014

We will never forget the heroes who gave their all, and you sir are a hero. Continue to rest in peace Captain Reed. My heart and prayers are with your wife and sons today and always.

Deb Azure
Mother of Deputy Renee Danell Azure
EOW 08/06/02
Union County SO, Lake Butler, FL

January 14, 2013

Happy Birthday, Chad!
Love and miss you more each day!
Love,
Mema

Mema

September 24, 2012

He was a true FBINA brother and a real HERO !!!!! He will be missed ! Dave Essex, 85th Session, FBINA

Chief Park Ranger David J. Essex
National Park Service, USDI

March 11, 2012

Holly I have watched my daughter deal with this same situation. She is dating again also, but I now know she will never be the same. I miss my son-in-law terribly and I can't imagine the hurt that she feels. Your doing the right thing. Take care of yourself and your boys. Your husband would be proud.

Bob Johnston
In law of fallen officer

March 7, 2012

Holly, IM so sorry for your loss. Your letter made me cry. You sound like you are a strong person because of what you went through and your boys will grow up to know that about you and how proud they should be of their daddy. God Bless to you and your boys.

Police Officer, CA Wood
Houston Police Department

March 7, 2012

R.I.P. Capt Reed, you're amoung the true hero's of life. To Holly I can only say that you sound like a strong/kind woman, a faithful wife and great mother. I can not imagine even 1 day in your shoes, but I pray that God keeps you and your family safely in his wings. Moving on must be a constant struggle, but it sounds like Chad is helping you on that path. May the winds of the world carry you to wonderful places, may the sun shine brightly upon you and your children, and may the good graces of Lord Jesus be bestowed upon you.

Retired Corporal Roberta A Hinde #46
Northampton Twp Poilice Dept, Bucks Co, PA

March 7, 2012

Chad,

As I sit here today reviewing the new postings my heart breaks for the most current loss. Clay County S.O...has lost a detective. He left behind his wife and 2 small children. Sound familiar? Never as a wife do you think it will be you who gets that phone call or visit, but it has now been 25 months you have been gone.

Hernando County has just finished the trial of John Kalisz who not only murdered you, but shot 4 women, killing 2 of them. The jury recommended the death penalty and the sentencing phase begins soon. I did a couple of news interviews after the trial and both reporters asked the same question. "How does the result make you feel?" My response, "it doesn't change my life...Chad is still gone and John Kalisz will never be a free man. You as a reporter may write an article or two to describe the situation to the public, however, I will tell you it doesn't matter if anybody writes a story or if it never goes on the news...it's not something we have to be reminded of by reading in the newspaper...we live everyday without Chad...that's tougher than sitting in a courtroom with his killer. Today is like any other day since January 14th, 2010...you aren't here with us...but life goes on."

We have survived our year of seconds...Caden's 7th birthday, Thanksgiving, our 14th wedding anniversary, Christmas, C.J.'s 11th birthday and January 14th without you. The boys are growing into handsome young gentlemen that you would be very proud of...C.J.'s GPA is the highest in his class and Caden is amazing with how quick he picks up on something and his determination and focus...they both have so many of your traits. There are days I look at them and it breaks my heart to know you arent here to see them grow and there are days that they are true comedians! And days I want to pinch the mess out of them when they push my buttons...you know exactly what I'm talking about.

Life has taken on a new normal for us...the boys have adjusted to the new school and are doing much better emotionally. I chose to work part-time so I can be at all of the school parties, ball practices, etc...so, life is still busy just different because I work 2 days a week not 5-6. We are settling into our new house. We needed a change of scenery. Every time I walked into the living room I saw you sitting in your recliner. Every time the back door opened it took my breath away because I thought Chad's home...only to come back to reality and realize that's not possible.

I also started dating...talk about new territory! We had those conversations...what if...however, those conversations are much easier in theory than in real life. I have learned so much about who our true friends are. So many people judge and yet have never walked a day in my shoes. I stand and hold my head up because I know our marriage was true. We may have had our tough times, but those tough times are what makes us stronger. I upheld my wedding vows without fail and then some. The first few dates were tough, I spent more time in the bathroom hyperventilating than at the restaurant table. I hadn't been on a date with anyone but you since I was 17. We grew up together and knew how each other thought. You don't find that every day. Only you can appreciate the "small town, small minds" approach that some people have about this situation. I have told several people, I didn't divorce him, I didn't leave him, he was murdered, we didn't choose not to be together...if he were here, we would still be together.

The hardest times, the most lonely times are in the evening and the weekend when we spent our time together. But now with dating...it has helped with the loneliness. I talked in length to the boys before starting to date...if I didn't know better I would think you talked with them...their responses were...mom we just want you to be happy and that's what daddy wanted too. Then Caden asked..."if you go to the movies can we go?" my answer, of course! And so far as dates go...I've had more dates with the boys than without the boys. I have to know that they are more than okay with whoever...we have made a great decision on who I'm dating and you would approve...that was something I always kept in the back of my mind...would Chad approve? I have no doubts...we are taking things slow...after living through this horrible tragedy...we want to go slow and adjust to our new life.

We feel your absence daily...as we get ready in the morning when you used to play around with the boys...to me not hearing you sign off...54-6...oh...and a laugh for you...I have done many things in the last 2 years I never dreamed of doing...and this past year I got a tattoo...that's right...a tattoo...small and descrete..."54-6" Just for you...because you always wanted one, but never did.

Also, to let you know I still get phone calls from the FBINAA #238...they call, email, etc...checking in to make sure we are doing ok. Remember the "wall of honor"? The one you made me take a picture of while up for FBINA graduation? Well, you were inducted as the 27th person last March. I know you were laughing when I stood in that auditorium and spoke in front of all those people. YOU were the public speaker, not ME...yet, I have not had a choice. I have just told myself I was speaking for you. Nervous, sweating, weak in the knees...but I made it through.

FBINAA #238 also had a bronze plaque made of you...YOU in bronze...C.J. and Caden laughed and laughed when they saw it...it looks so much like you...but it hangs proudly outside the Sheriff's office in the courthouse. Your presence is missed at the S.O. too...

I also faced your murderer in court. I told him I forgave him. It's not healthy to hold onto that kind of stuff. It makes you bitter. I have prayed daily that God would keep me from being bitter and so far...it's working. I told John Kalisz he took one of the most precious things from me, but I wasn't gonna let him steal my joy for life. I still have 2 boys to raise the way we started...and I'm not a quiter!

Rest knowing we think of you daily...talk of you in our everyday conversations...and miss you always.

Thank you for always being the "prepared" person you were. You made sure that if something did happen the boys and I would be okay. We are okay, but definitely not the same people we were before Janary 14th, 2010. Some people don't understand why I'm not the same...I have tried to explain that half of me died that day too, but they just look at me like I'm crazy.

Love always,

Holly

Holly Reed, widow of Capt. Chad Reed, Sr
E. O. W. 1-14-2010, Dixie County S. O.

February 17, 2012

Rest in Peace, Captain Reed. Your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Officer 11169

February 9, 2012

Chad's family and coworkers are in our thoughts in prayers as the trial involving other heinous crimes committed by the perp continues in Hernando County. May you be comforted in knowing people everywhere--even complete strangers--think of you and share in your grief at the loss of a wonderful person who accepted the call to protect and serve.

God bless you all.

Mary VanHaute; Clearwater, FL
Wife of Retired Green Bay Police Officer

January 21, 2012

Your heroism and service is honored today, the second anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never dimishes respect and your memory wili always be honored and revered. I pray for solace for all those who love and miss you for I know both the pain and pride are forever.
Holly, thank you for sharing your beautiful love story with us and thanks to your friends who let us know what an amazing man and friend you were. I hold you all in my heart's embrace today.
.

Rest In Peace

Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05

January 14, 2012

Continue to rest in peace Captain Reed, we will never forget the sacrifice you and your entire family made for all of us.

Deb Azure
Mother of Deputy Renee Danell Azure
EOW 08/06/02
Union County SO, Lake Butler, FL

Deb

January 14, 2012