Obituary of Richard Reid

It is with deep sadness the family of John (Richard) Reid announce his passing on September 1, 2022. While we are filled with deep sorrow knowing he is no longer with us, we are profoundly grateful for his presence and influence in our lives. Richard was born to Harry and Roberta Reid on November 24th, 1936 in the village of Gagetown, where he eventually raised his own family, the 5th generation of Reids raised in the village. He attended the old Gagetown Grammar School and high school at the Rothesay Collegiate School, like his father before him. He studied Business Administration at the Fredericton Business College. He had several jobs as a young man, including banking, but most of his adult life was employed by Esso Oil. Around the community he was known as a friendly and generous delivery man, often helping families in need and writing off debts at his own expense. Before retirement he also worked for several years for Fundy Mutual Insurance. Richard enjoyed fun family activities including cross country skiing and summer camping. He had a wonderful sense of humour and enjoyed writing songs and played several instruments. An avid outdoorsman, fond of fishing and hunting, he was also a sports enthusiast who played several activities in his youth including hockey, basketball, and probably his favourite - baseball. He was a member of the 1958 Woodstock Elks Senior Men's provincial baseball championship team. When he no longer played, he maintained a steady diet of televised sports viewing. Many family gatherings happened in and around the television room and the latest game. He stayed up evenings watching his favourite teams, right up to the days before he passed. Richard is survived by his beloved wife of over 59 years, Elaine; his siblings Ann, Phil and Jim; his children Darren (Sylvia), Krista, Mark (Aurora) and Jake (Kara); his grandchildren Amanda (Spencer), Chloe, Sephora (Nigel), Kyoko, Amelia, Asiah, Hillary, Caelan, and Alex; his Great-grandchildren Milah Sylvia and newest member Gesaset Elaine, as well as many nieces, nephews and their families. Family was always his pride and joy and he presided over a large, happy, and boisterous one. We are eternally grateful that, although he passed on quickly, we had enough time to say goodbye and tell him how much he meant to us. If he were here to do it himself, he would have thanked all of the wonderful healthcare staff, too numerous to name, who helped ease his passing and looked after him in his last few days. Special thanks to Dr. Haines and the staff and volunteers with Fredericton Hospice House. As per Richard's wishes, a private family burial will occur at a later date. For those who wish, donations to any SPCA or to Fredericton Hospice House would be greatly appreciated.