Edward "Ed" A Reiss

Edward A. Reiss “Ed”, 66, formerly of Claymont and New Castle, Delaware, went home to be with the Lord on September 25, 2026, holding the hand of his beloved wife of forty-eight years, Karen (Smith).

Ed was born and raised in Claymont, Delaware, and was one of three children born to Forrest A. Reiss and Mardella A. Reiss (Knief). From an early age, Ed was an important part of the family business, Reiss’s Sunoco, founded by his grandfather in 1926. The family business remained an important part of his life and helped shape the strong family values that he carried throughout his years.

Ed was a hardworking and dedicated man  who spent 40 years with the local water utility, advancing through several positions during his career while continuing to work alongside his family at Reiss’s Sunoco. He eventually retired at the age of 59, and he and Karen relocated to his “happy place,” Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Ed was an organized and knowledgeable man who always seemed to have a solution to any problem. He was honest, dependable, approachable, and had a way of making difficult situations better. Above all, he was a kind and caring person who was always there for the people he loved.

Ed had a lifelong passion for motorcycles and classic cars, especially ’57 Chevys. He loved the open road, bike weeks, flea markets, and exploring Myrtle Beach with his family. He enjoyed taking his children to concerts and had a deep passion for music. In retirement, he took great joy in showing visiting family members around town and making sure they had a good time and created memories together. He also had a legendary sweet tooth and rarely passed up an opportunity to enjoy chocolate, ice cream, and cookies.

Ed’s greatest joy and greatest pride was his family. He treasured his wife, Karen, his children, and his grandchildren, and devoted his life to being there for them. He leaves behind his three sons, Edward A. Reiss, Jr. (Amanda Aiken); Joshua Reiss (Dana); and Justin Reiss (Kristina), along with his four grandsons and three granddaughters, who will carry forward the traditions, lessons, and memories he created with them.

He is also survived by his beloved mother, Mardella A. Reiss, age 90; his best buddy and brother, Forrest A. Reiss; his devoted sister, Della A. Ross; and his beloved pups, Annie and his faithful companion Max.

Ed will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, his kindness and compassion, his incredible work ethic, his love of motorcycles and classic cars, his sweet tooth, and his ability to make the best of every situation. He had a gift for making people feel welcome, supported, and cared for. His legacy will live on through his children, grandchildren, siblings, and the many lives he touched throughout his 66 years.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to LifeHouse Church Smyrna, PO Box 936, Smyrna, DE 19977. https://www.lifehousesmyrna.com/ .

A Celebration of Life honoring Ed will be held at a later date.

Family and friends will be notified when arrangements have been finalized.  

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