Anglican Life is sad to announce the death of Ernest Reid, former Chancellor of the Anglican Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador. We extend condolences to his family at this time. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.
Ernest George Reid , KC
April 17, 1943 to July 19, 2025
Ernest George Reid, aged 82, of St John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, passed away peacefully with family by his side on July 19, 2025, at the Health Sciences Centre after a brief illness.
Throughout his wonderful life, ‘Ernie’ shared many “experiences” that became memories with a wide circle of loving friends and family. His love of life and of those around him was undeniable. His loving charm and infectious wit were unavoidable. He saw the good in everybody that he had the pleasure to meet, and the world was truly blessed to have known him.
Predeceased by his wife Margaret “Peggy” (Grant) Reid, parents Ernest and Irene (Rose) Reid, sisters Phyllis and Elizabeth (Reid) Gibbons (Henry) and brother-in-law Roy “Sonny” Grant.
Leaving to mourn with happy memories his children Ellen Beth (Mark), Charlotte, Andrew (Andrea), and granddaughters Joni and Lexi (by whom he was affectionately known as “Grumpy”). Also sister-in-law Patricia “Patty” Fowler (predeceased by Frank), brothers-in-law Dr. Kenneth Grant (Heather) and Thomas Grant (Laura). Also leaving to mourn a large community of extended family and friends.
Born on April 17, 1943 to doting parents and big sisters, Ernie had many stories of growing up in post wartime St.John’s, including summers spent at C.L.B. camp. He attended Bishop Feild College and Bishop’s College before attending Memorial University (B.A. 1964) and Dalhousie Law School (LL.B.,1967). During his time in university he served in the Navy (Lieutenant RCR(N) 1968), forming many friendships that lasted throughout his life.
Ernie found much success in his career as a partner in the law firm of Stewart McKelvey.
He served as Chancellor of the Anglican Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador, President of the Newfoundland Branch of the Canadian Bar Association (1977-1978) and President of the Law Society of Newfoundland (1982-1983).
Very much involved in community endeavours, Ernie was active with the Rotary Club of St. John’s Northwest, The Newfoundland and Labrador Branch of the Naval Officers’ Association of Canada (NLNAC), the Baden-Powell Guild and was a proud member of the Crow’s Nest Officers’ Club, amongst countless other groups and committees.
All throughout, Ernie enjoyed travelling and exploring with his beloved wife of 50 years, Peggy, spending time at his cottage with family and friends, brewing wine and growing exquisite roses. In later years he enjoyed staying active with the Newfoundland and Labrador Cardiac Fitness group.
The family would like to thank the wonderful staff of 4 South at the Health Sciences Centre for their care during Ernie’s brief illness.
