John Charles Reid (1945-2025)
John Charles Reid, 79, of Derby, Kan., passed away peacefully on Aug. 29, 2025. Born in Ellsworth, Kan., to Charles Lewis Reid and Laval Linda Reid (Breford), John lived a life marked by faith, intellect and unwavering devotion to his family and the Word of God.
A proud graduate of Kansas State University, John remained a loyal Wildcat fan throughout his life. His enthusiasm for K-State athletics was matched by a strong reaction when it came to their in-state rivals — never shy about sharing his opinions and disdain for KU.
John married Mary (Coltrane) on June 6, 1971, in Iola, Kan. Together they built a life grounded in love, faith and adventure. A mechanical engineer by trade, John approached his work with precision and purpose, but it was his passion for Bible teaching and his deep love for the nation of Israel that truly defined his heart. He led countless Bible studies, traveled extensively — especially to Israel — and inspired others with his thoughtful insights and unwavering commitment to truth.
John and Mary suffered the loss of their daughter, Leann Renae Reid, on Jan. 24, 2022.
He leaves Mary, his wife of more than 54 years; his children Angela and Doug Meigs, Eric and Amy Reid, Chris and Alissa Reid, Peter and Misti Reid and Sabrina and Brent Thomas; grandchildren Moriah Shelby (Caleb), Jacey Grogan (Wesley), Leah Reid, Tate Reid, Mason Reid (MaHaley), McKenzie Reid, Malachi Reid, Callie Jo Reid, Ellie Reid, Olivia Reid, Cerese Thomas, Aven Thomas and Henry Thomas; great-grandchild Brooks Grogan; siblings David Reid (Marilyn), Catherine Gilpin (preceded in death by husband Gary) and Sue Stedman; and many other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by brother Rick Reid (Barb) and parents Charles and Laval Reid.
A celebration of the life of John Reid will be held 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, at the New York Valley Church, Yates Center, Kan.
The family will meet with friends from 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, at Campbell Funeral Home Yates Center.
In honor of John’s lifelong love for Kansas State University, the family warmly encourages attendees to wear K-State gear or purple to the service.
John Reid’s life was a testament to faith, family and conviction. Whether he was teaching the Bible, cheering on the Wildcats or sharing stories from his travels, he did it all with passion and purpose. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him, and in every life he touched with his wisdom and truth.
Memorials may be made to the New York Valley Church, Yates Center, in support of continued ministry and biblical teaching, and may be sent in care of Campbell Funeral Home, P.O. Box 188, Yates Center, KS 66783.