Josiah John Reid

Jamaica, to parents George Reid and Rosetta Salmon-Reid. At the age of 88, he

transitioned peacefully on August 1, 2026, in Florida, his final earthly home, after a life

marked by faith, service, and compassion. Elder Reid was a God-fearing man, devoted to

studying and preaching the Word. His guiding scriptures were Joshua 1:9 and Jeremiah

29:11:"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be

discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9)"For I

know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you,

plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)These verses were not only his

favorite sayings but the foundation of his life, shaping his ministry and his encouragement

to others.

Elder Reid received his education in Clarendon before journeying abroad. His path took him

to England, Canada where he worked as a welder at a welding firm and ultimately Florida,

where he retired. Despite his professional commitments, his heart remained deeply tied to

the church. He was a faithful member of the Church of the Risen Christ, where his love for

gospel music and fellowship shone brightly.

Elder Reid cherished his family. He is survived by his sisters Stephanie Reid and Muriel

Monica Pert Reid, and his devoted goddaughter Eugennie Shaw-Wynter, who was the apple

of his eye. He was predeceased by his brother, whose memory he carried tenderly. Though

he had no children of his own, his love overflowed to all who knew him. Known for his

honesty, trustworthiness, generosity, and compassion, Elder Reid was a man who loved to

share and uplift others. His gift of communication was remarkable-his phone calls often

stretched long, filled with conversations about "any and everything." Dependable and

steadfast, he was a pillar of strength to his loved ones. Among his cherished sayings was

his gentle reminder: "Miss Shaw, you worry too much. When I die, I will be going home to

my Savior." These words reflected his unwavering faith and peace in the promise of eternal

life

Elder Reid's favorite memories include moments of fellowship, gospel music, and the joy

of connecting with others. His legacy is one of faith, resilience, and love-a man who lived

fully in service to God and others. He will be remembered as a compassionate soul, a

faithful servant, and a dependable friend whose life was a testament to the power of faith

and the beauty of generosity.

Though hands may tremble, hearts may weep,

God's promise holds us strong and deep.

Be strong, be brave, His Word is true,

He walks ahead, He carries you. No fear in death, no night too long,

For heaven resounds with gospel song.

The Savior waits with arms outstretched,

A home prepared, a soul at rest. So lift your eyes, let sorrow cease,

For Elder Reid now dwells in peace.

His voice still echoes, calm and sure,

God's love remains-forever secure.

Sleep on, Josiah Reid "Elder Reid," until we meet again in the Earth Made New.

A visitation will be held at Forest Lawn Funeral Home, 5740 South Pine Ave, Ocala, FL 34480, US, on August 13, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a funeral service at the same location from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

A committal service will take place at Forest Lawn Memory Gardens, 5740 South Pine Ave, Ste A, Ocala, FL 34480, US, on August 13, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm.