Janette Reid

Janette Hickey Reid, 89, passed away peacefully at home on November 25, 2023, surrounded by her loving family.  She is survived by sons Mike (Janet), Dan (Kathy), Carl (Liz McCulloch) and daughter Laura (Bob) Durkin; and 12 grandchildren Allison, Meredith, Jack, Leslie, Ryan, Katy, Charlie, Robby, Sarah, Jane, Patrick, and Maggie.  She was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 65 years, Robert “Bob” Reid and parents Edward and Jane Hickey.  Janette was born in Cleveland, OH on August 8, 1934, and moved to East Grand Rapids in 1936 where she graduated high school in 1952.  She went on to the University of Michigan and in 1954 met the love of her life, Bob.  She graduated from Michigan with a BA in Education in 1956 and then taught first grade at Congress Elementary School in Grand Rapids while Bob served his country in Korea.  Upon his return in 1958, they were married at St. Stephen’s Church in East Grand Rapids.  Janette was a traditional mother and devoted wife, and longtime supporter of women’s issues and groups during a time of great societal change.  She became president of the Women’s Board of the Grand Rapids Symphony after many years of service.  She was a decades-long volunteer and leader for the League of Women Voters in West Michigan and Vero Beach, Florida, and an active member of the American Association of University Women.  A lifelong tennis player, Janette travelled the world with Bob, taught by example and always made a point to support the arts and other worthy causes.  She was a voice of balance, intellect, reason, and most of all, a wonderful daughter, wife, mother, and nurturer of family.  A private memorial service celebrating Janette was held upon her passing, and the family wishes to thank the loving caregivers at Hospice and Beacon Hill.   

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