James Raymond

Reid, Jr.

In the early hours of Sunday, February 1, 2026, our beloved husband, father, and grandfather peacefully completed his earthly journey and entered eternal life at the age of 76 years.

James, fondly known to family members as "Skipper", was born on October 28,1949 to the late James Raymond Reid, Sr. and Louise Jackson Reid.  As a native New Yorker, he was formally educated in New York City Public Schools.  Following graduation from Springfield Gardens High School, he enrolled in Virginia Union University where he sought a degree in Business Administration.  It was at VUU that he met his life-long friend, Alexander (Alex) Smith, Jr. and was given the nickname, "Sam". Alex and James shared an apartment throughout their four years at VUU and remained friends until James' death.

The year 1973 was one of profound accomplishments for James. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Virginia Union University; On August 5th, he married the love of his life, Raynell Maria Hicks; and he began his professional career as an Assistant Branch Manager at First and Merchants Bank. In April 1981, James and Raynell welcomed their one and only child into the world, Jenese Rochelle Reid.

Known for his tireless work ethic, James poured his heart into every endeavor, setting an example of perseverance and purpose for all who knew him. He approached every task with determination, care, and a commitment to doing things the right way, no matter how big or small the task. In every challenge, he led with steady grace, meeting even the most stressful moments with calm assurance and a clear mind that inspired confidence among colleagues and co-workers. This pride and professionalism resulted in James being sought after by other companies/industries.  In the early 2000s, he accepted an administrative position with the U.S. Department of Agriculture- Rural Development. During his tenure there, he was recognized for: processing the largest amount of community facility projects ever processed in Virginia; making the largest number of Guarantee Rural Housing Loans in the state of Virginia; finding new and creative solutions to challenging circumstances to better serve rural communities throughout the state of  Virginia; and for providing  exceptional customer service to the numerous communities he served.

During the final years of James' career, he worked as an administrator for The U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in Washington, DC.  Each morning (Monday – Friday), he would leave home at 5:00 a.m. to drive to Fredericksburg, VA to take the train to DC. He would arrive home around 6:30 in the evening. Despite the long, grueling hours, James led with a calm assurance and a clear mind that inspired confidence in everyone around him.

James' intellectual curiosity shone through his love for American history and his keen engagement in local and national politics.  As an avid Lionel train enthusiast, he was happiest when tinkering with his engines and bringing his layout to life.  Each whistle and click of the track carried him back to cherished memories of his childhood.

James was a member of The Theban Beneficial Club and the Underground Railroad Investment Club where he served as the club's treasurer for several years.

James was predeceased by his parents James and Louise Reid.  He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving wife of 52 years, Raynell; one daughter, Jenese; one granddaughter, Kyra  (whom he absolutely adored); four sisters-in-law: Barbara McCall, Marlena Johnson, Shelley Smith and Gail Smith; three brothers-in-law: Michael McCall, Sr, Ariah Johnson, and Anthony Smith; three nieces: Erica Dew, Antonia Smith, and Jasmyne Chase (JC); five nephews: Javoski Bunch, Michael McCall, Jr., Christopher Kirkland, Justin Smith, Jordan Smith; a Godson, Carlon Zanders; and a host of  relatives, cousins and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a monetary donation to The Leukemia Foundation in his name.

Remains rest at Scott's Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd., where viewing will be held Monday, February 16 from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, February 17 at Scott's Chapel at 11 a.m. Interment Greenwood Memorial Park.