William Franklin Louis Reid

He was the cherished husband of Mary Anne Reid (formerly Maxwell), who predeceased him in 1996, and the proud and devoted father of his son Bryan (Suzanne). Bill was a beloved brother to Val (Al), Barb (Joe), Henry, and Shaennea, brother-in-law to Buffy (Jim) and a loving uncle to Paige (Blair), David (Elyse), Chantal (Ron), Sean (Matthew), Matt (Amy), Maeghan, Rachel, Jaime, Erin, and Jared. He was a devoted "Papa" to his grandsons Maxwell and Jackson, who brought him immense pride and joy.

Born in Toronto, Bill spent his childhood in Kirkland Lake and Kapuskasing before returning to Toronto and eventually settling in Aurora. A graduate of Victoria College at the University of Toronto with a degree in Philosophy, Bill spent his career as Head of Digital and Print Communications for the Ontario Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health. He was a visionary in his work, embracing emerging technologies with excitement and a keen understanding of their potential to transform lives. Bill had an unwavering belief in progress and the power of innovation, often marveling at how advancements in technology could shape a better, brighter future for the world.

Generous, creative, passionate, and unique—these were the words most often used to describe Bill by the friends and family who knew him best. Bill gave generously not only of his resources but of his time, wisdom, and support. He had a gift for creating spaces and moments where people could gather, share joy, and form lasting memories. Whether through heartfelt conversations, thoughtful advice, or a simple act of kindness, Bill had an extraordinary way of helping others find fulfillment and happiness.

Bill’s life was rich with passions. An avid birder, tennis instructor, and pickleball enthusiast, he also found peace in fishing, golf, cycling, photography, and watercolor painting. An accomplished singer, he lent his voice to the York Region Community Choir and the Evergreen Choir.

At his beloved Bruce Beach, Bill loved playing morning tennis with his fellow beachers. He was also passionate about growing and planting trees. As a member of the Men of the Trees, he planted hundreds of trees throughout Bruce County during his many summers. He brought that same dedication to the Aurora community, playing music for seniors at the Aurora Seniors Centre and serving as a longtime tennis instructor and president of the Aurora Community Tennis Club, where he fostered a love of the game and built enduring friendships.

Bill approached life with wonder and gratitude, embracing each opportunity to learn, explore, and create. His huge heart, and passion for helping people will always be remembered by those that knew him. Even in his final weeks, he spoke of his deep appreciation for the world’s beauty, its potential, and the incredible connections he had made throughout his life.

Bill spent his final days in the care of the Margaret Bahen Hospice in Newmarket, Ontario. In this remarkable and compassionate space, he was surrounded by love, comfort, and dignity—gifts his family will forever cherish.

A Celebration of Life will take place in the spring of 2025, when family and friends can gather to honour Bill’s memory and his enduring love of nature, innovation, and community.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill’s memory can be made to the Margaret Bahen Hospice. The family hopes to raise $5,000 to support this extraordinary organization that brought comfort and peace in Bill’s final days.

DONATE HERE: https://www.myhospice.ca/support-my-hospice/

Please ensure to add William Reid’s name in the “Tribute Gift” section of the donation form.

All online donations will receive a tax receipt.

If you’d like to donate by cheque please make it payable to Margaret Bahen Hospice (with a note in the memo line that it is in memory of William Reid).