James Alexander Reid was born September 2, 1936, passed away peacefully and entered Heaven’s gates on December 29, 2023. Jim was born in West Allis, Wisconsin to the late Michael J. & Grace C. (Shaw) Reid. Jim (Poppie) is survived by wife of 62 years Diane, children James (Debra), Lisa (Larry) Johnson. Grandchildren Amanda (Bryce) Parsons, Cameron Reid, Shanna (RJ) Dorn. Great grandchildren, Tristan, Dalton, Klayton Parsons, Kyle and Adam Dorn, sister Linda (the late Carl) Hoon, sister-in-law Marlene (brother the late Michael) Reid and Sister-in-law Barb, (brother-in-law the late Robert) Morawetz, many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He is preceded in death by his great grandson Colton Parsons and siblings William (Janet) Reid, Janet (Charles) Lewitzke, Margaret (Leo) Wojciechowski, Grace (Heinz) Schmeisser and Jean (Ray) Wargolet. His deep faith in the Lord was evident throughout his life in all he did. He exhibited a willingness to serve others, had a deep love for rhythm expressed through his drum playing and possessed a zest for life, humor and laughter.These qualities served him well in his 25-year career with Prudential selling life insurance. He was invited, attended and graduated from Toastmasters'. This newfound love of public speaking propelled him to join and serve many years in the Jaycee’s, holding the office of treasurer, coordinating all aspects of volunteer, vendor and facility relations involved with the Western Days and Christmas celebrations serving as Grand Marshal of both parades. His work ethic began early in his life. Working on a farm picking potatoes, radishes and onions. His teenage years finishing farm work, home to shower and hustle over to the skating rink to work the skate counter. He worked at Wisconsin State Fair Park in multiple events early on picking up bottles, progressing into soda, beer and food sales in the grandstand during USAC auto races and various State fair events. Ultimately running his own state-owned stand in various park locations during fair week. Retiring from Prudential he relocated to Arizona in 1986. He quickly joined the Amway business development program. The motivational, training and support system enhanced his skill sets giving him the confidence to pursue the opportunity and transition into the timeshare industry. He enjoyed meeting so many people, attending a variety of sporting, music and cultural events all to share the concept he believed in so much. Settling in Westbrook Village, his active lifestyle didn’t slow down much when he retired in 2019. He was soon attending regular fitness classes each week, and golfing with his buddies every Wednesday. His greatest joy and treasure were 62 years of marriage to Diane. He would quickly tear up as he expressed how much he loved her and how lucky he was from the first date eating an extra-large pizza at Zullies in Wisconsin. To the very end as she cared for him through the medical challenges he was facing. His joyful spirit, infectious smile, and unwavering love for life will be greatly missed.
A memorial service and celebration of life for James will be held Friday, January 5, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Sunland Mortuary Chapel, 15826 N. Del Webb Blvd. Sun City, AZ. 85351.
“In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to wounded warriors”
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.11.3