Robert Reed, 77, Kansas City, Mo. died Saturday, Sept 11, 1999 in Vencor Rehabilitation Hospital, Kansas City, Mo.

He was born Sept. 8, 1922 in Osawatomie, the son of Sam and Carrie Hedge Reed. He grew up in Osawatomie and was a 1940 graduate of Osawatomie High School.

Mr. Reed was employed as a welder for Ford Motor Co. in Kansas City, Mo. before his retirement.

He served in Japan with the U. S. Army during World War II.

In 1976 he became interested in the art of wood sculpture, but did little at that time. About nine years later, his interest resurged after he had attended an exhibit of African art in the Nelson-Adkins Museum.

Encouraged by his two sisters, Ruth Wrench and Bethel Smith, who still live in Osawatomie, he began to carve and sculpt, used primarily ebony, teak, walnut and white pine. He worked from sketches most of the time, but always let each piece of wood dictate the final solution.

His work has been on display in the West Wyandotte Library in Kansas City, Kan. and at the Osawatomie History Museum and Schrader's Insurance during Negro History Month.

Survivors include his wife, Vennique Reed, of the home and his two sisters.

Mr. Reed was cremated and private service for burial of the ashes will be held at a later date.