Londonderry Gathers For Send Off For Reed And Phyllis Clark

LONDONDERRY, NH - Londonderry townspeople came out to celebrate 93-year-old Reed Clark’s contribution to the town of Londonderry, and send him off on his next journey.

Reed and his wife Phyllis sat in two chairs side by side at The Coach Stop Restaurant & Tavern Monday morning at a surprise party. Townspeople formed a continuous line to thank him for his contributions, share stories and talk about experiences they had with him over several years as a Londonderry resident.

Reed has served the town in many capacities including serving on several committees, including the budget committee, Old Home Day Committee, Tax Payer Association, and as a Scoutmaster,

Clark is the longest-serving member of the local Rotary Club and was honored by members. He was given a plaque acknowledging his contributions, it was inscribed “In appreciation and recognition of outstanding service, loyalty, and devotion to the ideals of Rotary for over 30 years.”

The Clark family farm was built in 1843 and has remained in the family ever since. In the 1980s after serving in the U.S. Department of State Reed returned to continue contributing his knowledge to the town. The Reed's who have five children and 17 grandchildren have a lot of roots in the town.

In the next few weeks, the Reeds will move back to D.C. to be closer to family. His daughter, Jeanne Baxter, said the decision to move was made after a recent fall. The farmhouse will remain in the family.

Londonderry Police Capt. Patrick Cheetham helped plan the event and referred to him as Londonderry’s most Esteemed and Cherished Citizen of All Time.

Everyone attending the party had buttons bearing Reed’s picture and the words “Carry On” and that is exactly what Reed wants the town to do.

©Jeffrey Hastings www.frameofmindphoto.com/news