John "Johnny" Reid

January 18, 1946 – February 24, 2026  

It is with the heaviest heart that we say goodbye to our beloved brother, Johnny. He passed away peacefully on February 24, 2026, at the age of 80, and the world feels a little dimmer without his steady presence, his gentle smile, and his unwavering love for the Lord.

Johnny was born on January 18, 1946, in New Haven, Connecticut. When he was a young boy, the family moved to Tucson AZ where he lived into his early teens before the family moved back to CT. He attended West Haven High School, where he graduated with the Class of 1964, and attended The University of New Haven. Johnny loved learning, teaching and traveling. 

In 2003 he traveled to Japan, where he lived and taught English to eager students. The time in Japan was special—he loved the culture, the people, and the chance to connect across languages and worlds. But his heart always pulled him back to Connecticut, where he returned to be close to family, his Church, and the life he cherished.

Johnny was a man of deep, quiet integrity. He was honest to his core, loyal beyond words, and someone you could always count on. He loved learning new things and sharing what he knew—whether in a classroom in Japan or in everyday conversations. He had a special passion for our United States military, especially the Air Force. Nothing lit up his eyes quite like talking about our great fighter jets to his nieces and nephews; he'd tell stories about them with such pride and wonder. And of course, he was a die-hard Yankees fan—through every season, every win and loss, his loyalty never wavered.

But above all else, Johnny's greatest desire was to tell everyone about Jesus, our Lord and Savior. His faith wasn't loud or showy; it was steady, sincere, and lived out every day. He wanted everyone to know the hope and love he found in Christ, and he shared it with kindness and conviction. That faith sustained him, and now it comforts us.

Johnny is survived by his devoted younger sister, Loris Pagano Rhault, and her husband, Richard J. Rhault. He was the proud uncle to Andrea E. Pagano, Joseph C. Pagano and his wife Melissa, and Anthony J. Pagano and his wife Stephanie. He adored his eight great-nephews and six great-nieces. He also leaves behind his long-time special friend, Pina Kacprzynski, who shared many meaningful years and memories with him.

We will miss you dearly, Johnny—your laugh, your wisdom, your gentle way of making everyone feel seen and valued. My heart aches in ways I can't fully express, but I take great comfort in knowing you are with Jesus now, exactly where you always wanted to be. Rest in His peace, my dear brother. Until we meet again.

The family will share details about any memorial or celebration of Johnny's life soon. 

With love and tears,  

Loris (and all who loved him)