Herbert Austin “Herb” Read, age 79 of Ridgeway passed away on March 29, 2017 at his residence. He was born April 14, 1937 in Stokes County, NC to the late Manson Austin, Jr. and Nannie Sue Orander Read. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by three brothers, Bill DeShazo, Buck DeShazo, Charlie Read, and his only sister Betty Lawson.
Herb was a graduate of Spencer-Penn High School, served honorably in the US Navy Air Corp, and was a member of Rich Acres Christian Church. He worked as an insurance broker for 20 years and retired as Regional Coordinator for AFLAC.
Mr. Read was a Master Mason in Piedmont Lodge #152, a member of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, George W. Wright Commandery #31, Knights of Templar, and a Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Virginia. He was a Charter member and Past President of the Piedmont Shrine Club as well as a charter member of the Piedmont T’s Parade Unit.
Herb was an active member of Kazim Temple in Roanoke, VA for over 50 years where he served as Potentate in 2003. He was also a member of the Roanoke Valley Shrine Club and the Royal Order of Jesters.
He is survived by his wife Iris Windsor Read of the home, one brother, John Read of Spencer, daughter and husband Jennifer and Adam McCollough of Flower Mound, TX, five grand children: Automne, Caroline, Sterling, Vanessa and Katherine McCollough, all of Flower Mound, TX, and a special niece Sharon Lawson Joyce as well as many nieces and nephews.
His funeral service will be Monday, April 3, 2017 at 1:00 pm in the Roselawn Chapel with Reverend Brian Harrington officiating. Masonic Rites and Military Honors will be rendered at the graveside in Roselawn Burial Park. The family will receive friends for two hours prior to the service from 11:00 to 1:00 pm in the Roselawn Chapel and at other times at the home in Ridgeway.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations in memory of Herbert A. Read may be made to the Kazim Temple Transportation Fund at 628 W. Campbell Avenue, Roanoke, VA 24016. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rosalawnchapelfuneralhome.com .