Billy Kirk Reed, 92, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on December 19, 1932, in Altus, Oklahoma, to Hazel Juanita and Jesse Herman Reed, Bill was a proud graduate of Altus High School, where he excelled academically and earned the Kiwanis Club’s Best All Around Boy award—an honor he cherished throughout his life. He attended Oklahoma Baptist University before transferring to the University of Oklahoma, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Geology (1954) and later a master’s degree.
At OU, Bill forged lifelong friendships as an active member of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity. His dedication to the brotherhood never wavered—he served two terms as chapter adviser and played a key role in two major renovations of the fraternity house.
In 1956, Bill began his career with Standard Oil of California in Ventura. He married Doann Uecke in 1960, and together they raised two children, Kathy and Kirk. After serving in the U.S. Air Force (active duty and reserves, 1958–1966), he was transferred to Oklahoma City in 1968. When Standard Oil closed its office there, Bill chose to stay and venture out on his own as an independent geologist—a bold decision that led to remarkable success.
His perseverance paid off in the late 1970s when he sold a prospect based on his groundbreaking thesis theory that fractured Viola limestone could produce oil and gas commercially—contrary to prevailing industry beliefs. His daughter Kathy jokingly suggested naming the well after her for good luck, and the "Kathy" well struck big, producing 1,800 barrels per day and sparking a drilling boom across southern Oklahoma. In 1978, he merged his company, Akita, with Holden Energy, leading to an unprecedented streak of eighty-seven successful Viola wells.
A talented businessman, Bill helped acquire Penn Central Corporation’s energy assets in 1985, positioning his company among the nation’s top independents. After Holden Energy dissolved in 1999, he remained active in the industry through Bromide Inc. (owned by his son, Kirk) and Viola Inc. (owned by Bill and Doann).
Beyond his professional achievements, Bill was a devoted family man and sports enthusiast. He coached his son’s football team at the Northside All Sports Association and continued coaching even after Kirk moved on, stepping up when volunteers were scarce. A lifelong OU fan, he cheered passionately for Sooner football and women’s softball.
Bill maintained a strong work ethic well into his later years, going to the office daily until the pandemic forced him home—a transition he found difficult. In his final years, his family is deeply grateful for the compassionate care provided by LeVonna Corley, Brandy Corley, Crystal Corley, and Scott Wright, who ensured he could remain in his home.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Doann; his daughter, Kathy; his son, Kirk; and numerous friends who will miss his sharp wit, generosity, and unwavering loyalty.
Memorial Service:
A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on April 16, 2025, at Wildwood Community Church 1501 24th Ave North East, Norman, OK. A private family committal will follow at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to:
Dale K. Graham Veterans Foundation
1233 W. Lindsey St., Norman, OK 73069 | dalekgrahamveteransfoundation.org
Norman Bible Church (Memo: Griffin Hospital Ministry)
P.O. Box 720535, Norman, OK 73070 | normanbible.church
Services entrusted to Lowell-Tims Funeral Home and Crematory (Altus, OK).
"A life well-lived leaves a legacy of love, laughter, and enduring impact."
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Previous Events
Memorial
16
Apr
1501 24th Ave
Norman, OK 73071
