William Reid

William R. Reid, affectionately known to all as “Butch,” of Madison Heights, Virginia, went to be with the Lord on Saturday morning, May 30, 2026. He was born on April 10, 1947, in Lynchburg, Virginia, and was a proud graduate of Central High School in Amherst, Virginia.

A devoted husband and father, William was a sweet and kind soul who never met a stranger. He had a heart of gold and was good to everyone he encountered. Known for his warm smile and infectious laughter that could fill any room, William had a giving spirit and would not hesitate to help anyone in need.

Among his earlier work, William was employed at B&W at Mt. Athos before eventually finding his true calling on the open road. He drove for Burlington Industries until the company closed its doors, then went on to build a remarkable 19-year career with Quickway Carriers, from which he proudly retired. Over the course of 37 years, he was a dedicated and respected over-the-road truck driver whose work ethic and character left a lasting impression on all who knew him. To the trucking community, he was affectionately known as “Crop Duster,” and he held a special appreciation for his longtime colleague and friend, Doug Noakes — known to many as “Bossman.”

William was a lifelong member of Scott Zion Baptist Church, where he attended 12:00pm Bible Study faithfully. He also served the congregation loyally as a bus driver for seven years, a role that reflected his dedication to his church family. His faith was a cornerstone of who he was and how he lived — with grace, generosity, and love for others. In his leisure time, William enjoyed gardening, fishing, and spending time in the outdoors, where he found peace and appreciation for God’s creation.

William was preceded in death by his parents, William and Mary Reid; his daughter, Sonya Reid; and his brother, Louis Jackson.

He leaves to mourn his loving wife, Margrette Reid, and his son, Thaddeus Reid (Irene). He also leaves behind four grandchildren: Shomari Southerland, Shorene Southerland, Shomya Southerland, and Xavier Reid; his sister, Elaine Smith; his brother, Michael Reid; two sisters-in-law, Virginia Harvey and Edith Chilton; his aunt, Anne Christian; and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.”

— Mark 12:30

A Funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday at Scott Zion Baptist Church, Madison Heights. The family will accept friends at their home daily from 12:00-7:00 p.m.

He will lie in repose one hour prior to the service.

Tharp Funeral Home, Madison Heights is assisting the family.

Acknowledgements

The Reid Family extends their deepest thanks to Tharp Funeral Home, and for all the words of comfort, prayers, and support. We appreciate your cards, flowers, kindness, visits, and expressions of sympathy.

— The Reid Family