Lynne Joy Reade
March 31, 1927- March 19, 2015
Lynne Joy Reade was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, the eldest of three sisters. She moved to Southern California in 1947, met and married her husband, John “Jack” Reade, and settled in Whittier, California. Lynne and Jack lived in Whittier for 39 years until moving to Fremont, California in 1990 to be closer to their daughter’s family.
Lynne was an advocate for justice in many realms. In the Los Angeles area in the 1960‘s, she worked to support fair housing regulations. As a result of her civil rights activities she went to law school and became a lawyer at age 47, primarily defending people with criminal charges. Lynne was President of the Whittier Bar Association in 1986.
An elder in the Presbyterian Church (USA), Lynne was active at all levels of the denomination, including her local church. She was known widely for her advocacy on justice issues and support of progressive religious efforts. Lynne put her time, energy, and heart into those causes in which she believed. Described by a friend as a “powerhouse”, she demonstrated the impact one person could have.
Lynne loved to travel, and continued to do so as recently as last August, eagerly researching and preparing for each new adventure.
Lynne was married to Jack for just short of 50 years before his death in 2001. She was a devoted mother and grandmother to daughter Elaine (Dave) and granddaughters, Lauren and Hannah. Lynne loved nothing more than spending time with her granddaughters from the moment they were born. She was warm, generous, and thoughtful with family and friends. All of those who knew her and loved her are better people for having had her in their lives.
Lynne is survived by her daughter, Elaine (David Towne), grandchildren, Lauren & Hannah, sister Carol Rush (Dick), and several nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 16, 2015 at 2PM at New Bridges Presbyterian Church, 26236 Adrian Avenue, Hayward, CA 94545. Donations may be made to The Reade Fund, c/o Presbyterian Foundation, 200 East Twelfth Street, Jeffersonville, IN 47130. The fund supports Lynne’s church’s mission to help the poor in the local community.