Darrin Lee Reed, an officer with the Show Low Police Department, was taken from us in the line of duty on Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2016. A memorial service was held Nov. 14 at the Show Low Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was born in Salida, Colo., July 19, 1966, to Larry Reed and Darlene Reed Donahoo. He attended school in Salida, Lancaster, Texas, and graduated from South High School in Pueblo, Colo., in 1984. During high school, he was the class photographer, and loved photographing school events and classmates. This passion won him an award for his still photography. Darrin served in the U.S. Air Force as a security forces officer and was stationed in San Antonio, Texas, and Cheyenne, Wyo. After his service, he moved to Arizona in 1988, where he worked in wholesale supply and the Show Low School District. While attending the police academy he worked as a security officer at the paper mill at night and also volunteered with the Sheriff’s Auxiliary. In 1996 he graduated from Northland Pioneer College in Criminal Justice. Continuing with his life of service he became a sheriff’s deputy with the Navajo County Sheriff’s Department, where he served for 10 years. The last 10 years he served with the Show Low Police Department. During Darrin’s law enforcement career he served in various capacities, including patrol officer, patrol sergeant, training officer, general instructor and special investigations. He received numerous letters of commendation and awards. Nearing retirement, he was taken from us in the line of duty. Darrin met and married the love of his life, Catherine Reed, in 1990, becoming a father to Cheryl (Ferguson) Nixon and soon thereafter was blessed with their son Chance Reed in 1996. He was a loving husband and father who devoted his life to protecting and providing for his family. His interests included fishing, hunting, Broncos football, fantasy football, barbecuing, making practical jokes and, most important to him, spending time with his loving family. Darrin was well respected by his family, friends and fellow officers. His foremost attributes were being considerate, thoughtful, honest, loyal and above all, high integrity. Survivors include his wife of 22 years, Catherine Reed; his son, Chance Reed; his daughter, Cheryl Nixon; his mother, Darlene Donahoo; three brothers, Duane Reed, Dale (Lizz) Reed and Troy Donahoo; a sister, Deana Donahoo; three grandchildren; and many aunts, uncles, extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Larry Reed and grandson, Lance Rogers. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made at the local Chase Bank or through the Show Low Police Department. Owens Livingston Mortuary of Show Low was in charge of the arrangements.
