After graduating from Brandon High School, Reed attended the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) on scholarship studying political science with an emphasis in criminal justice programs.  Initially, he planned to join either the FBI and/or the United States Marine Corps.  These plans changed when he met his to-be wife, the former Dee Dee Burt, and was offered another generous scholarship to continue his studies at the University of Mississippi School of Law. 

While in law school Reed made good grades and graduated at the top of his class.  By this time he had both a wife and son to support so God’s blessings were particularly bountiful when he was offered a good job with a reputable insurance defense law firm which had an office in Oxford, a wonderful place to live. 

After several years, Reed joined his supervising attorneys in forming what is today Freeland Martz, PLLC.   During this period Reed and his wife had more children and adopted two others. Reed and Dee Dee have five children (Gabriel, Margaret, Jonathan, Anna, and Claire), all of whom are homeschooled by a mother with the patience of a saint.  They also have a beloved standard poodle, Ollie, and only half-jokingly question the need for any other breed.

In his free time Reed enjoys distance running and outdoor sports including camping, hunting, and shooting.  Due to his passion and years of study Reed is regarded by many to be the foremost expert on Mississippi gun rights and 2nd Amendment issues.  He is actively involved in several community and faith-based organizations.  Reed and his family are members of Grace Bible Church of Oxford.