Jerry Dean Reid

Jerry Dean Reid, 72, beloved father, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, April 23, 2020.  He was a caring, fun-loving man who treasured time with his children, traveling near and far, and making the most of life. Jerry had an infectious laugh, was the life of the party, made the best jokes, and could be quite a prankster. “Snowman” spent his working life chasing the white line down the road in an 18-wheeler, finishing out his career with FedEx Freight. But his best years were spent cruising on his boat in Florida with son Jarrett, traveling to the Pacific Northwest to go on adventures with his girls, Arianne and Anne-Marie, golfing, fishing, and spending time with friends and family. The son of Charles W. and Helen “Marie” Reid, Jerry was born April 4, 1948 and grew up in Goodland, KS.  He played multiple sports, including football, and graduated from Goodland High School, class of 1966. He served in the US Army, including one tour in Vietnam, was a proud veteran, and continued to support veterans causes throughout his life. Jerry was married to Anne L. Smythe for nearly 20 years, moved to Wichita, Kansas, and had three children.  He made Wichita his home for the remainder of his life. It was hard not to love Jerry and be happy when you were with him. He touched many lives with his warm, caring, and jolly demeanor and was a hero in so many ways. He will be greatly missed and loved always. Jerry is survived by his son Jarrett Reid of Titusville, FL; daughters Anne-Marie Reid and Arianne Reid, both of Portland, OR; and a grandson and granddaughter expected in Summer 2020.  Jerry is also survived by his sister, Norma Sponsel of Cheney, KS; nieces, Michelle Reid Barrier of St. Louis, Mo and Julie Reid Fritsch (husband Michael) of Wichita, KS, and nephew James Reid (wife Melissa) also of Wichita.  Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Larry and Ray Reid; sisters, Betty Bateman and Patricia Hollis; sisters-in-law, Patricia and Annie Reid; and brothers-in-law, Carl Bateman, William Sponsel, and Jerry Hollis. Jerry requested that there are no services but rather a party be held to celebrate his life. This will be organized at a later date.  Inquiries to the family can be made at jdreidfamily@gmail.com In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jerry’s memory to: Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Charitable Service Trust - https://www.givedirect.org/donate/?cid=779 Gary Sinise Foundation (supporting America’s heroes) - https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/donate/ Freedom Service Dogs of America  - https://freedomservicedogs.org/donatefsd/