Bert Reed Jr. grew up in Oklahoma City, attending Harding Junior High and Classen High School. He received his bachelor's and law degrees from the University of Oklahoma before serving in the U.S. Air Force for the judge advocate general's office.
After the military, Mr. Reed proved himself an intelligent and talented businessman holding both a real estate and insurance license, working in banking and practicing law in the Oklahoma City area. Additionally, Mr. Reed taught classes at Oklahoma City University's business and law schools. He was a long-time member of the Bachelor's Club of Oklahoma City.
In 1998, Mr. Reed established the Bert R. Reed Jr. Fund at the Oklahoma City Community Foundation. After his death in 2008, a gift from his estate ensured the fund will continue to support charitable organizations and causes that were important to Mr. Reed, such as The Education and Employment Ministry (TEEM).