Pearlie S Reed

Reed went on to hold several positions within the Natural Resources Conservation Service and USDA. He was appointed the assistant secretary for administration of the USDA by President Barack Obama.

“Reed was a major advocate for Civil Rights within and outside of USDA,” according to the release. “It was the true hallmark of his career. He used his platform in public service to serve others and champion the underdog, and he believed and stood for fairness for all. Because of this and the outstanding contributions he made to the federal government during his career, Reed was awarded several accolades and honors, such as The Distinguished Presidential Rank Award for strength, integrity, industry and a relentless commitment to excellence in public service; The George Washington Carver Public Service Hall of Fame Award; The USDA Silver Plow Award; an Inductee in the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame; and the Excellence in Conservation Award.”

Reed and his wife, Lesia Reed, split their time between Marion, Arkansas, and Baltimore, Maryland. He has two daughters, Cheryl Yvette Reed and Teresa Reed, both of Raleigh, North Carolina. He also has two grandchildren and a great-grandchild.