Reda Joann Charmichael

Reda JoAnn (McNamee) Charmichael, 76, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, May 9, 2024. Born on January 7, 1948, in Iowa City, Reda was an only child, daughter of George (Namon) and Mae (Eckhart) McNamee of Dysart, IA.

On December 2, 1967, Reda married her high school sweetheart, Ronald Charmichael, beginning a journey that spanned over 50 years filled with love and adventure. Reda attended the University of Iowa then transferred to UC Hayward to support Ron's career in the Air Force. They enjoyed their time in the Bay area before returning to Dysart to be close to family.

Throughout her career, Reda made meaningful contributions as a social worker for the State and later as a controller at Doerfer Engineering, and various human resource roles in Cedar Falls. Reda was passionate about her community, serving as president of the school board, director of community theater, in addition to volunteering her time with women’s club and fine arts all while raising her daughters and supporting their involvement in endless activities including tumbling, dance, music, and sports. She served as an organist for the Dysart United Methodist Church and enjoyed giving piano lessons to many students over the years.

Recently Reda moved to the Des Moines area to be closer to her four grandsons, Nixon, Wells, Matty, and Bowie. Reda never missed a chance to read a book, have a conversation with a grandson or share her wisdom with the boys and her sons-in-law. She will be most dearly missed as Mimi.

Reda is survived by her daughters Ashley (Todd) Millang and Hillary (Randall) Shaw, along with her grandsons (Nixon Shaw, Maxwell Millang, Mattias Millang and Bowie Shaw). She was preceded in death by her husband, Ronald, and her parents.

Visitation will be held at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home & Crematory on Sunday, May 12, 2024, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. A memorial service will take place in the Chapel at Hope Lutheran Church in West Des Moines, IA at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, May 13, 2024. Inurnment will be held at a later date, at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter, IA.

Reda's life was a testament to love, resilience, and unwavering faith. Her impact on her family and community will continue to be felt for generations to come. Though our hearts break at our earthly loss, joy overflows knowing that she has been reunited with her husband and our savior Jesus. Reda is now shining her light in God's kingdom, forever watching over us with boundless love and grace.

Checks made out to Bravo, with a memo section “Passport to Culture”. Check can get delivered to either Bravo or Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines.

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Electronic memorial contribution can be made here: https://desmoinesfoundation.org/bravoyoutharts