Faye Ann Reed (nee Yelmene), 68, Green Bay, Wi— Loving Soul, Creative Spirit, and Proud Professional Troublemaker Faye Ann Reed, age 68, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a life full of love, creativity, compassion, stubborn opinions, and stories that will only get better (and slightly more exaggerated) with time.
Faye was born January 28, 1958 to Mary Ann Peil and Roger Yelmene in Two Rivers, Wi and was a 1976 graduate of Gibraltar High school of Fish Creek.
Faye was, by her own quiet mastery, a professional troublemaker—the best kind. The kind who spoke her truth (whether you were ready or not), kept everyone on their toes, and made life brighter with her quick wit and perfectly timed commentary. If something needed saying, Faye said it. If something didn’t need saying, she said it anyway. And if someone needed a little extra love, she gave it without hesitation.
She was deeply devoted to helping the vulnerable, whether that meant children in need or animals who found their way into her big heart. Grandpuppies, in particular, lived lives of absolute luxury under her watch.
Faye also had a remarkable creative spirit. She loved quilting, beading, and scrapbooking—crafting not just beautiful pieces, but lasting memories for the people she loved. Her creations, like her love, were thoughtful, detailed, and made to last.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 35 years, Brian Reed, who undoubtedly earned a lifetime achievement award in patience and love and lovingly endured her expert-level troublemaking. She leaves behind her daughter, Kayla (Ben) Zombor; her stepchildren, Matthew Reed and Jessica Reed; and her adoptive children, John Ballard, Meghan Ballard, and Kelsey Ballard. Faye is also survived by her brothers, Steven (Melanie) Yelmene and Brian (Barbara) Yelmene, her nieces Jasmine, Nikki, Paige, her nephew, Kyle, and by her cherished grandchildren—Amelia, Kai, and Dorian— who will carry forward her stories, her spirit, and, quite possibly, her knack for extravagant storytelling and strong will.
Her home was always open, her table always had room, and you rarely left without a full stomach, a handmade treasure, a bit of unsolicited advice and, if you had room, a car load of stuff and leftovers. She loved fiercely, laughed easily, and lived in a way that made ordinary days feel anything but.
In honor of Faye, consider embracing your inner “professional troublemaker”: speak honestly, love generously, help those who need it, and don’t forget to spoil the pets.
She will be deeply missed—but it’s safe to say wherever she is now, things just got a little more lively, a little more colorful, and a whole lot more interesting.
The family will be celebrating her life on an individual basis to share stories and laughs in an intimate setting.
