Lt. Col. Desmond J. Reid

[ironputts]

April 5, 2023

Lt. Col. Desmond J. Reid
Wing Headquarters Reserve Squadron
Washington Wing

Desmond James Reid, 73, died at home on March 19, 2023. He was born June 22, 1949, in Winnipeg, Canada, the son of James A. Reid and Anne (McWilliams) Reid (both deceased).

Desmond graduated from Tennessee State University in Nashville, Tennessee, and obtained a second degree from Western Washington University. He joined the Marine Corp in May of 1968, serving two tours in Vietnam. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, The Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry Meritorious Unit Commendation with palm, the Vietnam Service Medal with three stars, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Marksman Rifle Shooting Badge, the Marksman Pistol Shooting Badge, and two Good Conduct Medals. He served as an Antitank Assault Man during his service. He was honorably discharged in 1973. After leaving the Corps, he joined the Civil Air Patrol in Lakewood, Washington, rising to the rank of Attorney General.

He married Diana Hill Jones on October 10, 2001, which was the Marine Corps birthday (chosen so that Des would never forget their anniversary).

Desmond was predeceased by his grandparents, The Reverend Mr. Thelman S. and Ida Espy Reid, who raised him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Diana, stepdaughters Brandi Diane Hopkins and Leslee Colleen Sarno, both of California; grandchildren Travis and Mitchell. Robert E. and Mary B. Reid of Silver Springs, Maryland; Calvin E. Reid, Jacklyn Reid-Woods, Paul Reid, Kenneth Reid, Robert H. Reid, David A. Reid, Demetria A. Reid, W.D. Callian and Barbara Jean Callian.