It is with deep sadness that we announce Lt. Col. Wilson Doyle Reid, Jr., affectionately known as Butch, took his final flight on July 2, 2026, with his family by his side. 

Butch, a true Hometown Hero, was born in Roanoke Rapids, on February 19, 1940, to the late Wilson Doyle Reid, Sr. and Pearl Marshall Reid. In addition to his parents, Butch was also preceded in death by his favorite four-legged pup, Louie 6 G’s.

Throughout his 26 years of service in the U.S. Air Force, Butch was a decorated officer and fighter pilot who served in both Vietnam and the first Gulf War. He completed numerous missions and received many commendations and awards for his meritorious service and valor. 

Among the awards he received are: 

The Meritorious Service Medal for outstanding service in the 347th Tactical Fighter Wing; The Meritorious Service Medal with Second Oak Leaf Cluster for his leadership of Air Combat Command Units; The Air Force Commendation Medal with Third Oak Leaf Cluster and The Meritorious Service Medal with First Oak Leaf Cluster for his management and operational readiness, and was the cornerstone for the 33 Twelfth Air Force TAC-gained units; The Air Force Commendation Medal for Outstanding Achievement for increasing morale and welfare of officers; The Distinguished Flying Cross for Extraordinary Achievement in Aerial Flight as an F4D Phantom Aircraft Commander leading a strike mission against antiaircraft artillery; The Air Medal with Basic and First Oak Leaf Cluster for Aerial Flight; The Air Force Commendation Medal with First Oak Leaf Cluster for meritorious service in the 52d Flying Training Squadron; The Air Force Commendation Medal with Second Oak Leaf Cluster for his outstanding skill in tactical airpower.  

Set apart as a leader worthy of the merit and valor he earned in life, our hometown hero is celebrated and remembered at his passing.

Butch leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of 56 years, Carole; sister, Marie Gaylor; brother-in law, Stephen “Steve” Deising and his wife, Mary Ellen; niece, Erin Deising; nephew, Michael Deising and his wife, Michelle, and their children, Ben and Ally; godson, Richard Jay Clayton; special brothers in arms, George Caraway and Richard “Dick” Clayton; lifelong friend, Major Wayne Hatchell; and many extended family and friends who will miss him dearly. 

The family would like to thank everyone who has reached out to show their support to Carole during such a tender time in her life and would also like to thank each of the caregivers who were vital in assisting Butch and keeping him comfortable as he prepared for his final flight. 

A Memorial Service will be held for Butch at 11:00 am on Saturday, July 11 at All Saints’ Episcopal Church, 700 Roanoke Avenue, in Roanoke Rapids, with Rev. Sonny Browne officiating. Military Honors will be presented by the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard. Anyone not able to attend in person, may view the service at this link 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made in Butch’s honor to All Saints’ Episcopal Church.

Arrangements are under the compassionate care of Wrenn Funeral Home and online condolences may be shared with the family at www.wrennfh.com