In Loving Memory of Joseph A. Reid III

October 5, 1939 – February 27, 2024

Joseph A. Reid III, age 84, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2024, at Morristown Memorial Hospital. He was born on October 5, 1939, in New York City to the late Lenox and Ruth Reid and later grew up in Chatham, NJ.

Joe graduated from Chatham High School in 1957, maintaining many of his friendships for his entire life. He was an active member of the “Great Reunion” planning committee for many years. As a young man, Joe enjoyed many adventures that included living on a sailboat, cruising around the Caribbean catching his own food, and becoming an entrepreneur by starting a vending machine business. Once back in the states, Joe headed west working very hard to put himself through college at Southeast Missouri State by holding multiple jobs. After initially studying to be a dentist, he switched majors and graduated in 1965 with a degree in Biology. After college, Joe moved to New Providence, NJ and began a 34 year career as a Middle School Science teacher in the Chatham School District, his alma mater. There he inspired students with his love of science and learning as well as through his work outside of the classroom with the school amateur radio club. He left a lasting impact on countless students, many of whom he was still in contact with years after they left his classroom. Joe was truly an exceptional educator and a mentor to many.

In 1968, he met the love of his life, Diane. Joe and Diane were married on August 22, 1970 and settled in Basking Ridge where they lived in the same house for 50 years.

In addition to his love for his family and his passion for teaching, Joe had a wide array of hobbies and interests. He was an avid enthusiast of vintage cars, motorcycles, and amateur radio. Joe was a longstanding member of the Porsche Club of America for 50 years, where he was affectionately known as the Answer Grape. He was a longtime member of the New Providence Amateur Radio Club, where he cherished the connections he forged with fellow enthusiasts across the airwaves, sharing his knowledge and forming lifelong friendships. He was also a proud member of MENSA. When he was not participating with these organizations, you could find him tooling around on a motorcycle, exercising his Porsche (but only on a perfect sunny day), or tinkering with one of many projects in his much loved barn.

Those who knew Joe will remember him for his unwavering dedication to helping others, his ingenuity, and his quick wit. He truly left an indelible mark on all who crossed his path.

Joe is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Diane; his loving children, Whitney (Todd) Fatt and Joseph A. (Rachelle) Reid IV; his cherished grandchildren, Emily, Riley, Lily, William, Claire, and Nolan; his sister, Priscilla (Rick) Myers; and a host of other friends and family. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Lenox Reid.

Joe will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.