Walter Thomas Reid, Sr., 97, passed away with his children by his side on Wednesday, January 23, 2019 at Park Place Assisted Living in Georgetown, Texas. He was a long time resident of Pflugerville, Texas, and lived in Thorndale. Walter was born on May 7, 1921 in Manor, Texas to Ted Edward Reid and Irene Odel Ayers Reid.
Walter was preceded in death by his loving wife, Eva Aleene Carlson Reid, in July of 2018. Walter and Aleene shared an enriched life together for 72 years. He is also preceded in death by his parents, one daughter, four brothers, two sisters, and their spouses. Walter is survived by 11 children: Tom Reid and wife Yolanda; Travis Reid and wife Carolyn; Debbie Brown and husband Darrell; Leta Hernandez and husband John; Bart Reid and his wife Kim; Ron Reid and his wife Diane; Carol Vasquez and husband Danny; Doug Reid and wife Sharon; Paul Reid and Tanja Fry; Wanda Higdon and husband Doug; Briana Nowinsky and husband James. He is also survived by 33 grandchildren, more than 45 great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, his sister-in-law Darpha Helge; and sister, Sadie Fishback of Georgetown, who has been by his side as his devoted supporter and encouraged him throughout his life.
Walter served in the US Army during WWII as a bridge builder and mechanic. He served in Italy and other locations in and out of the US. He worked for the State of Texas at the State Purchasing and General Service Commission. He retired after 17 years of service. During retirement, Walter enjoyed caring for his variety of animals, attending auctions, and gardening. During his 80’s, caring for Aleene became his priority and a demonstration of his love for her. Because of his care, they were able to live independently until December of 2017.
Walter was a true patriarch of the Reid family. He always had something to say and provided inspiration and a supportive relationship to all of his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. All of Walter’s family, friends, and neighbors will miss his smile, his interest in things around him, and most of all – his heart.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., Sunday, February 3, 2019 at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home in Pflugerville, Texas. The funeral service will be conducted directly afterwards at 11:00 a.m. in the Memorial Chapel of the funeral home followed by a Committal Service in Cook-Walden/Memorial Hill Cemetery.
