Elmer Lee Reid was born August 16, 1941, in Richland, Mo. to Edgar Reid and Clara Blanche Allen Reid. He departed his earthly life on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Mercy Hospital in Springfield. He was eighty-two years, nine months and sixteen days of age. Elmer lived the majority of his life in and around Laclede County.
Elmer was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Blanche Reid; his granddaughter, Shayla Headley; his brothers, Alva and Earl; and three sisters, Jane, Wilma, and Edna.
Family was a cornerstone of Elmer’s life. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Reid; his brother, Jack Reid of Lebanon; his sister, Judy Luthy and her husband Tom of Lebanon; his daughter, Tina Headley and her husband Robert of Lebanon; his son, Torey Reid and his wife Tammy of Spokane; six grandchildren, Krystal, Tyler, Dylan, Brayden, Natalee and Gracie; five great-grandchildren, Ella, Violet, Milo, Sylvie and Callie; and many relatives and friends that will miss him dearly.
On June 1, 1964, Elmer married the love of his life, Mary Kelly. He passed away surrounded by Mary and family on their 60th wedding anniversary, but not before telling Mary happy anniversary and that he loved her.
Together, Elmer and Mary cultivated a beautiful life centered around their faith in God and their beloved family. Elmer spent many fondly remembered years working on the farm. His farm life consisted of milking dairy cows, raising beef cattle and breeding a wide variety of dogs, which brought everyone tremendous joy, especially the grandkids.
Elmer also spent time employed at Appleby Boats and Emerson Electric, where he was consistently praised as a talented and dedicated worker.
Elmer dedicated his life to Jesus Christ at an early age, and his relationship with God was very important to him. He always maintained a deep faith and loved worshiping at Crossroads Freewill Baptist Church. He served at Crossroads as a deacon in the church and was a longtime member there.
Elmer thoroughly enjoyed coon hunting and fishing. He loved watching the St. Louis Cardinals and discussing their performance. Bluegrass and Gospel music always brought a smile to Elmer’s face. He was also a gifted handyman. From lawn mower engines to computers, there was nothing he couldn’t fix.
Elmer will be remembered for his faith in God and his overflowing love for his family, who endearingly refer to him as Poppy. He maintained the highest level of integrity and loyalty towards all who knew him. He was a hard worker and supportive of his family no matter the circumstance. His kind demeanor and loving nature made every moment in his presence rich and meaningful.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, his family was the center of his world. He deeply loved his brothers and sisters. His greatest joy was creating lasting memories with family. We celebrate Elmer’s life and accomplishments and know that his family and friends will treasure the wonderful memories he made for them.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, June 7, 2024, at Crossroads Free Will Baptist Church. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service in the church. Burial will be in Crossroads Cemetery.
A memorial to Lane Change has been established in memory of his granddaughter, Shayla Headley and donations may be left at the funeral home.
Arrangements are under the direction of Holman-Howe Funeral Home of Lebanon.
For more information or to visit the website go to www.holmanhowe.com.
