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In Memoriam: Leo T. Reed

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The Teamsters Union is saddened to announce the passing of Leo T. Reed, a beloved member of the Teamster family, on Monday, February 28.

Reed began his Teamster career in 1980 when he joined Teamsters Local 399 in Hollywood as a driver. Thanks to his natural leadership and charisma, Reed soon became a business agent, serving in that role from 1981-1983. Reed quickly rose through the ranks and was appointed Secretary-Treasurer of the local in 1988. 

Reed remained the longest-serving principal officer of Teamsters Local 399, serving in that role until 2013. He also served as the director of the Teamsters Motion Picture and Theatrical Trade Division for 20 years and leaves behind a legacy of a tough negotiator that secured strong contracts for Local 399’s members. 

“Leo Reed was one of the great labor leaders in the Teamsters Union,” said Teamsters General President Jim Hoffa. “I counted him as not only a staunch ally, but a true friend. His legacy lives on in the strong local that he brought back from the brink over his 25-year career. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Debbi and his entire family during this difficult time.”