LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Legendary sports writer and Kentucky Hall of Fame journalist Billy Reed has died.
According to the Northern Kentucky Tribune, Reed passed away at Norton Women and Children’s hospital after battling a longtime illness.
Reed, whose bodies of work was featured in the Courier Journal, the Lexington-Herald Leader and the Northern Kentucky tribune covered legendary University Coach Adolph Rupp, boxing champion Muhammad Ali and high-profile events including the Kentucky Derby and the Super Bowl.
Senator and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell released a statement following Reed's passing.
“I was saddened to learn of the passing of legendary sportswriter Billy Reed, a man who delivered some of the best sports coverage in the Commonwealth. I knew Billy well since our time playing little league baseball together and always enjoyed reading his takes on Kentucky’s sports teams. From covering more than fifty Derbys, to shadowing Muhammad Ali, to attending NCAA championships, he enjoyed every opportunity Kentucky athletics had to offer. He had an outstanding career and Kentucky sports fans will miss him dearly.”
Funeral arrangements have not been set but family members said a celebration of life is planned in the future, possibly close to Derby.
Reed leaves behind two daughters and four grandchildren.
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