Wayland Reid's Obituary
Wayland M. Reid, 80, of Amherst passed away quite unexpectedly October 5, 2010, just 7 weeks after his wife of 60 years, Barbara J. Reid.
Born in Owosso, Michigan, May 15, 1930 Wayland moved around before his parents settled in Flushing, Michigan where he met and married Barbara. Their early life together took them to the Navy. At age 20 Wayland learned to fly planes and raced stock cars competing against Lee Petty, the father of Richard Petty. Later at age 40 Wayland would begin riding motorcycles, an interest he shared with his five sons and as President of Meadowlarks Racing Club.
After the Navy, the young family of 5 returned to Flushing and the family farm. As a member of the Moorish-Labarge Post of the American Legion in Flushing, Wayland was inducted into the “40 and 8” Parade Group, served as Post Commander and County Council President.
It was his job as an Air Traffic Controller with the FAA in Detroit that brought the Reid family of 8 from Michigan to Amherst, Ohio in 1964. As President of the National Association of Government Employees Wayland was instrumental in creating the first contract between NAGE and the FAA.
As Scoutmaster he inaugurated the annual “Pancake Supper” on Election Day at Westminster Presbyterian Church where he served as Lay Leader. The family has many fond memories of camping and canoe trips as well as motorcycle races.
After retiring from the FAA Wayland worked with Barbara in her business, Hickory Corner Antiques. He refurbished old furniture into works of art as well as created custom built pieces. His skills as a craftsman were highly respected, as was their business.
Wayland and Barbara enjoyed their friends at Riverside RV Park in Arcadia, Florida where they spent the past many winters. Wayland especially appreciated the support he received from so many there with the recent loss of his wife.
Wayland is survived by his sons, Randy (Vicki), Rob, Rich (Laura), Russ (Sherry), Rodger (Laura) and daughter Laurie as well as 16 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and their cat, Sassy.
Our father was an incredibly talented man, well liked and respected. To sum it up in the words of his letter carrier of 17 years, “There are so many words that could describe what a genuine, kind, funny, smart, and caring man he was. I can honestly say I am a better person just from knowing Wayland. What a prince of a man he was and I will truly, truly miss him.” So will we but we have great joy knowing that he is in Heaven with our mom.
A private family service has been held. If so desired, contributions in memory of Wayland and Barbara may be made to the Randall Reid Special Fund @48195 Cooper Foster Park Rd. Amherst, OH 44001, New Life Hospice, the Amherst Historical Society or an organization of your choice. Wayland and Barb were practical people.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Dovin and Reber Jones Funeral & Cremation Center. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.dovinreberjones.com
What’s your fondest memory of Wayland?
What’s a lesson you learned from Wayland?
Share a story where Wayland's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Wayland you’ll never forget.
How did Wayland make you smile?