Memorial Service Scheduled for Former VaHi Taco Mac Manager Paul Reed

Paul Reed (center) surrounded by some of the Taco Mac group he managed during a reunion at the store last February.

Many Virginia-Highland residents will recall Paul Reed who for several years was a manager at the Taco Mac location at Virginia and N. Highland avenues. Paul passed away last week from complications related to the diabetes he’d struggled with recently.

Paul was a wonderful man, with a heart and sense of humor to match his large frame. Whether you were a regular or someone walking into Taco Mac for the first time, Paul was always there to welcome you with a big smile and a hearty:  “Have a seat anywhere you like.”

Always someone you could go to with a problem or concern, Paul connected instantly and in a meaningful way with his staff. Many will recall that late one night Paul risked his life defending Taco Mac and its employees from an armed robber. The outpouring of support from his former staff and customers in the wake of his passing has been overwhelming and is a testament to how much he was loved.

There will be a viewing for Paul this Thursday January 16 from 2-8 PM at Raleigh Rucker Funeral Home located at 2199 Candler Rd. in Decatur. A memorial service will be held at the same location on Friday January 17 at 11 AM.

At the time of his passing Paul was uninsured, and his family is accepting donations to help defray the cost of his memorial service. Anyone interested in helping out at this difficult time can contact the family at 770-256-5711.