Alfonso L. Reid

Alfonso Louis Reid was born on August 11, 1932, to the late Fred Reid and Etta Williams Reid in New York, NY.  He entered eternal rest on March 22, 2025, at his home in Oakdale, NY.

After receiving his education in the public schools of NY and working briefly as an upholsterer, Alfonso enlisted with the U.S. Army on March 27, 1953. He received an Honorable Discharge after serving two years in Active Duty and 8 years in Reserves.  After his military service, he spent over 22 years working in the printing industry with the Printing Industries of Metropolitan New York, Inc.  He completed a program that promoted him to Foreman where he was the first African American to hold a supervisory role within the company.

Alfonso met and married the love of his life Ruth McNeil in 1970. They were married for 36 years before she passed in March 2006.  He loved and adored her with all his heart.  In their union, they raised one son, Darryl Reid, who passed away October 2008.

Alfonso was a faithful servant and attended mass every week as a member of the St. John’s Catholic Church.  He loved spending time with his family, his community and extended friends.  He especially loved tending to his indoor plants and garden. His favorite flower was the Forsythia. He loved this flower because his favorite color is yellow.  Alfonso had a true green thumb as he had the best-looking plants and garden. His neighbors always admired how good his yard looked. Alfonso was also a devoted fan of the NY Knicks.  He supported and cheered them on whether they were winning or losing. 

Alfonso leaves to cherish his beautiful memory, two grandchildren, Brittany Palmer and Joshua Reid, two great-grandchildren, Alaya Palmer and Amera Ayala; Lisa McNeil, who was like a daughter, three sisters-in-laws, Lois McNeil, Ethel Barr, and Gladys Reid; as well as nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of other relatives and friends.

His wisdom, advice, and laughter will be sincerely missed, but we know that he is now forever happy to be reunited again with his beloved wife and son.