Noel Virgil Reid

Noel Virgil Reid, 88, of Arden, died Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at Aston Park Health Care Center, Asheville.

Born in Asheville, he was the husband of Dorothy Jean (Gregg) Reid of Mills River, and the son of the late Gordon Virgil and Eula (Freeman) Reid. He was also preceded in death by two brothers: Robert Gordon and Lloyd Edward Reid, and one sister, Ruth Reid Hill.

Noel was a US Army 82nd Airborne Ranger veteran. He was very proud of his service and loved being an Airborne Ranger and sharing his experiences. Noel was proud of his 80 jumps.

Noel was a smoker for 40 years, and quit cold turkey, but put on weight. He then became a runner, having run the Boston Marathon five times. He once did five different marathons in five days, and had a trophy case to showcase his accomplishments. Noel also was an avid whitewater canoeist.

Noel loved his family and adored his wife, children, and many grandchildren.

In addition to his wife of 67 years, he is survived by six children: Pamela Reid Ducker (Stan), Richard Michael Reid (Debbie), Daniel Gregg Reid (Sue), Britten Alan Reid, Edward Gordon Reid, and Diana Reid Dirschel (Steve); 11 grandchildren: Timothy, Christina, Samuel, Nicole, Michael, Nina, Daniel, Jason, Michael, Katie, and Madeline; and 13 great-grandchildren: Cameron, Zane, Ivie, Emkie, Addie Kate, Elizabeth, Niall, Briggs, Jackson, Lexi, Jordan, Brantley, Bayliegh, and Kayden.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 PM on Sunday, August 18, 2024 at Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian with Rev. Leonard Cole officiating. Friends will be received after the service and a small reception will be held.

The family would like to offer their heartfelt thanks to the VA Hospital and Aston Park staff for their excellent care of him.

Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian is assisting the family.