
Vinson was born, January 7, 1947, in Harrison, Arkansas, to Jack and Ardith Reed. He left us, unexpectedly, this last Friday, January 27, 2017 at the age of 70. His parents had him late in their adult life, so he has always described himself as a 'special person'.
Except for the first 7 years, Vinson has been a lifelong citizen of Tulsa. To today, he has countless lifelong friends. He attended Pershing Elementary, Roosevelt Junior High School and Central High School. “What a perfect place to go to school,” he always said. He could, if alive today, recite the Central High school fight song and many Central High school cheers. After high school he attended Northeastern State University in Tahlequah. There he earned a Bachelor of History degree AND apparently never used that to his advantage; instead he became an icon of Tulsa’s real estate industry. He gained his real estate license in 1971.
If you know Vinson, you know he has always been a hard worker. In fact, his first job was at the age of 9 when, one morning, his father, who was a member of the Tulsa Country Club, dragged him from his bed and said, “Get Up!, I got you a job. You’re mowing grass down at the Club.” He has been working ever since, even to the day he passed.
Vinson was a fun and colorful person. There is no one he wouldn’t talk to, at first. If you were a close friend you knew his door was always open. Walk in. He would immediately tell you to go make yourself a drink. He would then raise his red solo cup. Rattle it and say, “While you’re at it, make me one to.”
Please raise your ‘red solo cup’ and give a cheer to Vinson.
You are going to be missed.
Donations may be made to Clarehouse, 7617 S. Mingo, Tulsa, OK 74133, www.clarehouse.org.
To Vincent's family. What a lovely and kind man. He went to Central as did I and he did love that school as did I. I worked with him when he was with McGraw, I have always missed him. I guess my message is "On CHS" the fight song he loved, as I did and anyone who graduated from this great school. Martha Barhydt Trimble, class of 1962.
Martha Barhydt Trimble
I am so sad to hear about Vinson's passing. I met Vinson when he came to work at Sooner Federal Savings and Loan. He was such a wonderful addition to the bank. He was always happy and got along with everyone. He had such a great sense of humor and kept us all laughing. After he left the bank and went into real estate, I would run into him at various events around town. It didn't matter how long it had been since I had seen him, he would give me that big Vinson hug and act like he was so happy to see me. I know he did that with everyone. He was a special person and the world lost a good one when he left us. You will be missed Vinson!
Kathy Knight
One of the funniest persons I have ever known. He always made you feel welcome. We would always laugh about having the same birthday. He will be missed by many including me. God love Bud!
Jim Van Sickle
Saddened to hear of Vinson's passing. I am an old neighborhood friend. My mom used to say Vinson could smell the donuts frying and would always be happy to help us with them. My prayers are with you, PattH8e7
Pat Mason Fuller
My Dearest Vinson, How dare you leave us all so abruptly! My goodness, your loss leaves such a hole in so many of our hearts. WHO will make us chuckle like you, Vinson? Who will I visit with in the check-out line at Reasor's? Who will tell me just HOW the cow ate the cabbage? I will miss you, Vinson, with all my heart. I love you, always, you big ol' teddy bear! Annie
Ann Neely Lazar
My family would like to send sincere condolences to the Reed family for the loss of your dear loved one. May you find comfort and hope from the Bible promise at Isaiah 25:8. Pray constantly, avoid isolation, and lean on God as you cope during this most difficult time.
Richardson Family