Richard “Neil” Reddy passed away December 14, 2020 after an extended battle with cardiovascular disease.  Neil was born August 18, 1942 in Berea, Ohio to the late James “Gil” and Julia (Repitsky) Reddy. Neil is survived by his wife Susan Reddy; his two children Michael Reddy and Kristine Murta (Scott); his sister Kathleen Mueller; and four grandchildren Nicole, Matthew, Paige and Shayne.

Neil grew up in Berea where he met and married Susan, his wife of fifty-seven years.  They moved to Big Rapids, Michigan where Neil attended Ferris Institute obtaining a bachelor’s degree in business administration and several auto machinery certifications.  Neil joined the Sigma Alpha Delta/Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity where he enjoyed the benefits of brotherhood and life-long friendships.  Upon graduation, Neil accepted a job with Ford Motor Company where he worked for thirty-two years.  His career moved the family numerous times between Ohio and Michigan, finally settling in Medina, Ohio.  His accomplishments at Ford included numerous awards for process improvements and a reputation for high expectations and increased production through operations control and metrics. Neil and his team were responsible for building and testing the new aluminum engine block.  He traveled the world to find the latest technology and the best suppliers to produce the highest quality vehicles.

Neil and Sue retired to Pawleys Island, South Carolina where they built their home in Heritage Plantation.  They spent their retirement golfing, traveling, building new friendships, enjoying local festivals and Heritage events.  Neil served on the Heritage Plantation Owners Association Board of Directors for a term and was well known at the Heritage for having every tool in his garage and for helping neighbors in any way.  Neil especially enjoyed when family and friends came to visit.  He was known as “Papa” to his grandchildren and loved spending time with them and keeping up with their busy lives and accomplishments. 

Neil’s old school production knowledge was in demand during retirement and presented him with numerous consulting opportunities.  He enjoyed being back on a production floor and training teams to find the balance between the best quality and the highest production volumes.  Always ready for the next opportunity, Neil spent a few years as an Uber driver where he earned five star ratings on over 1500 trips.  He loved talking to people and telling stories a bit taller than the actual tale.  He also worked for the Heritage grounds crew mowing the greens until overcome by illness.  

A private family graveside service will be held at Spring Grove Cemetery in Medina, Ohio.  A celebration of life will take place at a future time as the pandemic recedes.  In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Heart Association would be appreciated.

https://www.waitefuneralhome.com/obituary/richard-neil-reddy