Melvin Francis Reid's Obituary
Melvin F. Reid Sr., a decorated Vietnam War veteran and a pillar of our community, passed away peacefully early on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at the age of 78. Members of his family had the opportunity to visit him in the days before and to express their love to him.
Born on July 13, 1947 in Lithonia, GA, Melvin was the son of Marth F. Mears (Reid) and was raised by his maternal grandparents, Oscar and Christine Reid, who were affectionately known as "Big Papa" and "Big Mama". Melvin was a devoted member of Antioch Lithonia Baptist Church and attended services regularly with his grandparents.
Melvin attended Bruce Street High School in Lithonia, GA where he played trumpet in the high school band. After graduating from high school, Melvin enrolled at Fort Valley State University.
Melvin had a deep love for his country. This profound sense of duty led him to leave college early and enlist in the United States Army in 1965. After basic training, he attended airborne school and Advanced Individual Training (AIT) to become an Infantryman and later a Legal Clerk and a Court Reporter. He was assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division.
Melvin served with honor and distinction in the United States Army from 1965 to 1985. He deployed with the 1st Cavalry Division to the Republic of Vietnam where he was assigned as an Infantryman. After returning from overseas he completed stateside tours of duty at Ft. Hood, TX, FT Campbell, KY, FT Irwin, CA, FT Brag, NC, Karlsure Germany, and Ft. Carson, CO. He retired from the US Army in February 1985, attaining the rank of Specialist 6 (E6). His awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal (6th Award), National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Gallantry Cross medal with Palm, Vietnam Campaign Medal with 60 Device, Combat Infantryman's Badge, and Parachutist Badge.
Upon returning to civilian life, Melvin completed a BS degree at Fresno State University and later earned an MBA from Averett University. Upon Graduation from the University Melvin built a successful career as an Auditor for the Department of Veterans Affairs and later the Department of Labor, where his strong work ethic and integrity lead him to become the Director, Office of Audits. Melvin retired as a GS15 Supervisory Auditor in June of 2019 with 31 years of federal service.
Melvin was an avid golfer and a dedicated member of the Freemasons. He will be remembered for his quiet strength, his generous spirit, and his unwavering patriotism. Melvin enjoyed being with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren after his retirement.
He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Laurrie Reid; sons, Michael L. Reid (Tony Fortson), Melvin F. Reid Jr. (Stephanie Mitchell), and Philip C. Reid (Lisa Daugs); daughters, Lynetta Reid and Monique A. Reid; stepson, Nicholas Lady; grandchildren, Breanna S. Reid, Sean Reid, Kiara L. Reid-Coleman (Cory Coleman), Alexander J. V. Reid-Oie, and Zoey Reid; siblings, Charles Reid, Shirley Mainor (Reid) and Phillip Reid; sister-in-law, Jane Reid (Phillip); and many beloved grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Although he was a person of few words, he always found the right words to tell his family that he loved them.
The family will receive friends from 2:30-3:00 p.m. Saturday, January 31, 2026 at Found and Sons Funeral Chapel, 10719 Courthouse Road, Fredericksburg, where the memorial service will begin at 3:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that expressions of sympathy take the form of donations in Melvin’s honor to the Alzheimer's Association, Parkinsons Association, or to any veteran organization for Disabled Veterans.
He was a true American hero, and he will be deeply missed.
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