TULSA, Okla.–Keith Reed, affectionately known as “Coach Reed,” was a pillar of the North Tulsa community who dedicated his life to uplifting youth and building a stronger future for countless families. On Thursday evening, the community he served so selflessly mourned his passing.
Coach Reed’s influence resonated across Tulsa. He was well respected as a mentor, boxing coach, and business owner. For several decades, he taught young boys and girls self-discipline through the art of boxing.
Community members flooded social media with heartfelt messages, sharing their sorrow over his loss and gratitude for his unwavering dedication to empowering youth and uplifting his city.
Coach Reed: A father figure to the community
Many said he strived to be a “Father to the Fatherless.” His selflessness was evident in his willingness to help families without asking for anything in return.
“Coach Keith Reed was more than a coach; he was a cornerstone in my family’s life. He not only served as a strong male role model for my son, Billie Foster III, and my daughter, Whitney Williams, but also made a profound impact on me,” Kristi Williams told The Black Wall Street Times.
She continued to express her gratitude for his influence on her son’s decision to attend and graduate from Oklahoma State University. Additionally, he was a supportive figure and role model after her children’s father passed away.
For decades, Coach Reed made a lasting impact through the Reed Community Foundation (RCF), a nonprofit that provided safe spaces, mentorship, and educational opportunities for children in underserved areas.
Through after-school programs or sports activities, Coach Reed provided an environment where children and youth develop life skills, a strong work ethic, self-discipline, an enlarged spiritual life, and respect for others.
A legendary impact in North Tulsa
Coach Reed received many community awards in his lifetime. Most recently, he and his community foundations received a community impact award from the inaugural Black Wall Street Curves and Confidence Fashion Show.
In 2023, RCF celebrated the Ben Hill Community Center re-opening in the Greenwood District. District 1 Councilwoman Vanessa Hall-Harper and Kristi Williams assisted Coach Reed in re-opening the nearly 10-year vacant building.
Councilwoman Hall-Harper mentioned to The Black Wall Street Times that she had known Coach Reed and his family for years. A few years ago, he contacted her to expand his boxing program to Ben Hill Park. Through fundraising efforts and collaboration with the City of Tulsa and the Parks Department, he was able to upgrade the facility and bring it back to life for the Community.
According to News Channel 8, Williams Companies provided a $500,000 grant for the Ben Hill Community Center and Williams STEM Lab, which focused on STEM education.
Earlier this year, Coach Reed was one of 20 community members honored with a mural during Black Wall Street’s Legacy Fest weekend. Marlon Hall curated an art project, Doorways to Hope: An art installation that opens a portal to North Tulsa’s Legacy. Dr. La Verne Ford Wimberly and Reverend Joey Crutcher were among those who were honored.
Ultimately, Coach Reed has left an indelible impression on his community. He is loved and will be missed by many. He was a man amongst men and commanded respect with his presence in every room he walked.
“I would say that Coach Keith Reed was a giant in the North Tulsa community. He loved his Community, his people, and the next generation, the younger generation. The number of people he impacted is immeasurable,” Councilwoman Hall-Harper told The Black Wall Street Times.
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- The Reed Community Foundation | A staple in Tulsa’s African-American community
- Reed Community Foundation and partners are doing big things for north Tulsa community
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