William Billy Reid

First Sergeant William S. "Billy" Reid, MAARNG retired, 58, of Oakham, formerly of Worcester, passed away Wednesday April 24th 2013 with his family gathered by his side after a valiant battle with Cancer. 1Sgt Reid was born in Worcester, his father was the late William Reid. He graduated from South High School, joined the U.S. Army to service his country during the Vietnam War. Unpon his return Bill used the GI Bill to earn his bachelor's degree in business from Worcester State University. Bill then met and in 1986 married the women who would become his devoted wife and partner for the next 27 years Miriam (Melendez) Reid. Together they settled in Worcester for seven years before moving to Oakham 20 years ago. He has lived there ever since. For over 20 years Bill served his country during the Vietnam, Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom and the Gulf War's as a member of the Massachusetts National Guard before retiring. He began his military service during Vietnam serving for over 3 years. He then became a member of the 1st Bn 181st Infantry's Alpha Company. He served the 181st as a member of Alpha, Headquarters and as first Sergeant of Charlie Company before retiring. He also did tours for State Headquarters and State Retention office. Bill in civilian life, worked in the Building Maintenance Department of State Mutual Company and previously as a self-employed painter. He is survived by his wife Miriam (Melendez) Reid; his two cherished daughters, Miriam Aquallo of Oakham and Alexis Reid of Uxbridge; his mother, Dorothy (Benttson) Reid of Webster; a brother, Gordon Reid of West Boylston; a sister, Christine McManus of Webster; two grandsons his cherished dearly Brendon and David; Many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Bill was active in his community as well as the National Guard. He was a 32nd degree Mason of the Morningstar Lodge, the American Legion Post 396 in Paxton and the DAV. Chapter #4 in Worcester. An avid golfer, he loved the times he could spend on the many courses he played. Bill was a member of the Senior League of the Bedrock Country Club. He also enjoyed fishing, hunting and the outdoors. But the true inspiration in his life was his family and the National Guard. Nothing made Bill prouder than being with his family or in uniform with the National Guard. As a member of A Company in the early 80's Bill along with the other members of that unit earned the distinction as the best company in the Massachusetts Yankee Division. Funeral services with Military honors will be held Saturday, April 27th at 3 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family from 1 pm to 3 pm in the funeral home prior to the service. Burial in Massachusetts Veterans Cemetery in Winchendon will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the 32nd degree Masons learning center for children, Ionic Ave Lodge, Worcester.