Rogelio Antonio Reid Sr.

July 18, 1959 – October 6, 2026

With profound love and heartfelt sadness, the family of Rogelio Antonio Reid, Sr., announces his passing on October 6, 2026, at the young age of 67.

Born on July 18, 1959, in Panama City, Panama, Rogelio was the only child of Gwendolyn Maria Wilson and the late Thomas Reid. From the age of two, he was also raised by his stepfather, the late Alfred Wilson, who played an important role in his upbringing.

At nine years old, Rogelio moved from Panama to Brooklyn, New York, arriving on Halloween in 1968. He often recalled his confusion upon seeing his breath in the cold NY air and wondering why everyone was dressed in costumes. It was a memory he shared with humor and one that marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life.

With encouragement from his mother, Rogelio enlisted in the United States Army, proudly serving as an infantryman. His military service remained one of his greatest sources of pride. He spent approximately 13 years in Germany through his military and civilian careers, where he developed a particular fondness for driving fast on the Autobahn; a German Highway. He later dedicated many years of service to UPS (United Parcel Service).

Rogelio was a man of quiet strength, intelligence, loyalty, and unwavering dedication to his family. Observant and thoughtful, he possessed a sharp mind, a strong work ethic, and a wonderful sense of humor. He was always especially proud of three things: being Panamanian, being from Brooklyn, and being a soldier.

His love story with Telva “Sarita” DeCosta Reid began with a chance and quick encounter in Panama and reconnection years later when their paths crossed again in Fort Stewart Georgia. Sarita fondly remembered a tall, dark, and handsome man in a tan suit approaching her at her nephew’s christening reception and asking her to dance. Their first date was to a drive-in movie theater to see Coal Miner’s Daughter, and on June 19, 1982, they were united in marriage. Their loving union spanned 44 years, 3 months, and 17 days.

Together, Rogelio and Sarita raised three beautiful children: Rogelio Antonio Reid Jr. (RJ), Yolanda Anastacia Reid, and Rafael Alejandro Reid. As a father, he emphasized the importance critical thinking, hard work, and striving to become better himself and with each generation. His wisdom, guidance, and desire to see his children succeed remain an enduring part of his legacy.

Rogelio enjoyed reggae music, especially Bob Marley, everything from The Notorious B.I.G., cheering for the New York Yankees and New York Knicks, and watching boxing matches via pay-per-view.

He loved family road trips, maintaining his lawn, washing his cars, and experimenting in the kitchen. Known for confidently declaring, “I can make this at home,” after visiting restaurants, he frequently proved himself absolutely right. His spaghetti and sausage were a family favorite.

He also shared a special bond with the family’s beloved dog, Khloe, whom he affectionately treated like a grandchild. Whenever she waited patiently beside him during meals, he would happily share his food, explaining, “She just wants a taste.”

Although an only child, Rogelio shared close relationships with his cousins, whom he regarded as siblings. He valued family, loyalty, and the importance of looking out for those he loved.

In his later years, Rogelio faced significant health challenges, during which Sarita became his greatest source of comfort, care, and support. With unwavering strength, grace, and unconditional love, she remained faithfully by his side through one of life’s most difficult seasons. Throughout his journey, she was intentional in preserving his dignity, ensuring that he was always treated with the respect, compassion, and the care he deserved. In doing so, she honored the promise they made to one another more than four decades earlier: “In sickness and in health, till death do us part.” For Sarita, there was never a question of whether she would care for her husband, because she knew, without a doubt, that he would have done the same for her.

Rogelio was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Reid, and stepfather, Alfred Wilson.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of 44 years, Sarita; his children, RJ, Yolanda, and Rafael; his mother, Maria; and many cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Rogelio will be remembered for his quiet confidence, quick wit, unwavering pride in his roots, and the countless lessons he imparted to those fortunate enough to know him. He often declared, “Every day is my birthday,” a saying that will forever bring a smile to those who knew and loved him. No longer in pain, may his soul rest in peace. Job well done!

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever our soldier.

Family and friends are invited to gather at Gary L Kaufman Funeral Home at Meadowridge Memorial Park, Inc. 7250 Washington Blvd., Elkridge, MD 21075 (Exit 6 South off Route 100) on Thursday, October 29, 2026 from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at which time a Celebration of Live Service will be held. Interment immediately following at Maryland Veterans Cemetery Crownsville, 1122 Sunrise Beach Road, Crownsville, MD 21032.