On August 4, 2009, my mother, Marie C. Reed (Nana), with her family at her bedside, entered into Jesus' arms. She was born in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, on October, 12, 1925 to Theodore and Willie Iretta Cunningham; she was one of five children. In 1941, Marie graduated from Booker T. Washington High School and went on to earn a bachelor degree from Langston University, Langston, Okla. Upon return to Pawhuska, Marie began her career as a grade school substitute teacher, which she did for two years. However, with a real passion for proper grooming, Marie left teaching to become a cosmetologist-she had a special knack for it. Marie always believed that a woman should dress her best, look her best, and smell her best. She loved to knit and to work in her garden-she even used to talk to her plants-she said it helped them bloom at their best, but most of all, Marie loved the Lord. As a member of First Baptist Church in Pawhuska, she taught Sunday School; was the announcement speaker; served on the finance committee; missionary board and was the church secretary for several years. After her move to Arvin, California in 1994, Marie became a member of Bright Hope Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents Theodore and Willie Cunningham; two brothers, Calvin and James Cunningham; and sisters, Almeta Caldwell and Theoria Price. Marie leaves to cherish her memories, her daughter, Sylvia (Harry) Gilkey of Arvin, Calif.; two grandchildren, Marcus and Hope Gilkey; one great-grandson, Daniel Womack; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and beloved friends. Chapel Service will be held for Marie C. Reed, age 83, on Wednesday August 12, 2009 - 11 am at Arvin Funeral Home with interment immediately following at South Kern Cemetery District. Visitation will be held from 4-7 pm Tuesday August 11, 2009 at Arvin Funeral Home.