Raymond Marshall "Ray" Reid, Jr., of Elizabeth City, NC passed away peacefully on February 17, 2026 surrounded by his family.  

Ray was born on June 30, 1956 in Richmond, Virginia to Dorothy Bressler Reid and the late Raymond Marshall Reid Sr. 

Growing up, Ray was affectionately known by his family as "Chucky."

Born with a big personality, a generous spirit, and a gift for making others feel welcome, Ray lived a life of service, adventure, and love. 

He graduated from Fork Union Military Academy in 1974 and entered the United States Coast Guard in 1975.  He served in Elizabeth City, NC, Mobile, AL, Petaluma, CA, and Kodiak,  AK. in the field of aviation and as an Instructor and Course Developer, and retired as a Chief Petty Officer in 1997.   

Throughout his years of service, he received numerous commendations and awards, reflecting his dedication, leadership and deep commitment to his Country.

In life,  Ray embraced the things that brought him joy: hunting in the Virginia Mountains, traveling anywhere the road-or cruise ship-might take him, perfecting a good home-cooked meal, and trying his luck at the slot machines and blackjack tables. He had a storyteller's heart, a cook’s generosity, a sense of humor and a voice that could fill any room. 

Ray was a founding member and Vice President of Elizabeth City Hero Operations {ECHO}, an organization dedicated to fostering awareness, appreciation, and community support for veterans and wounded warriors. Deer hunts, quail and pheasant hunts, and off-shore fishing trips were enjoyed by many veterans. An annual weekend of fishing on the Pasquotank River with local fishermen and a fish fry was a very popular event.

Above all, Ray cherished his family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 47, years, Sheryl Carroll Reid; his daughter, Bethany Reid Roahrig and her husband, David and their children Evelyn and George Roahrig of Centennial Colorado; his son Adam Reid and his wife, Rachel, of Montgomery, Texas and their children, Sydney and Peyton Reid; his mother, Dorothy "Dot" Reid of Hague, Virginia; his uncle, Jerry Reid and numerous cousins; his sister-in-law Wanda Carroll Askew and her husband Mike, and nephew Brant Askew, with whom he shared a very special bond. 

Being "Pappy" to his grandchildren brought him his greatest joy. His loved ones will remember him for his loyalty, his wicked sense of humor, and the countless memories he created with them.

A celebration of Ray's life will be held on Sunday March 8, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Askew Funeral and Cremation Services in Roanoke Rapids, with life long cherished family friend,  Rev, Randy Martin officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarwood Cemetery in Roanoke Rapids, with full Military honors.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until service time at the funeral home on Sunday.