With great sadness  we announce that Tom Reid passed peacefully at home on January 5, 2025.

Born on August 16, 1947 in Roslyn, Long Island, New York to Jack and Virginia Reid, Tom was a spirited and adventurous soul who lived life to its fullest and had a profound effect on so many along the way. Tom is survived by his loving and devoted wife Linda, sisters Sue Alexander and Norma Bassett, brothers-in-law George Alexander, John Bassett and David Murphree,  multiple cousins, nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.

Tom’s lifetime of service began in 1967 when he enlisted in the United States Navy. His distinguished service lasted 3 years, becoming an Assault Boat Coxswain until 1969.

Upon returning to civilian life, Tom earned Bachelor Degrees of Science in Chemistry and Respiratory Therapy attending Palm Beach Jr. College, the University of Florida, Florida Atlantic University, and the University of Central Florida.

While in college, Tom met  Linda, the love of his life.  A whirlwind courtship led to an engagement in 6 amazing weeks. Ten weeks later, Tom, age 25, and Linda, age 21, devoted themselves to each other in marriage. This past August, Tom and Linda celebrated 52 years of married bliss, and adventure. Their bond is a testament to their shared values and commitment to each other.

After graduating from college, Tom served as a Respiratory Therapist to countless patients throughout multiple communities in Florida. In addition to practicing respiratory therapy, Tom became a professor at Lynn University and Palm Beach State College in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Tom was an educator, mentor, and inspiration to so many of his students. Even in retirement, Tom, the perpetual student, was able to pass his Adult Critical Care Specialty Boards in Respiratory Therapy.

Upon his retirement in 2008, his zest for life, learning, and adventure continued and eventually brought him back to the sea. In 2011, Tom and Linda set sail as   “Life-Long Learners“ on a Semester At Sea 104 day voyage around the world. That experience not only broadened his already vast horizons, it expanded his circle of chosen family and greatly enriched his life.

Known for his upbeat, thoughtful, and kind personality, Tom was a beacon of positivity and wisdom in the lives of everyone he met. He was genuinely interested in everyone's life and encouraged sharing stories without ever rushing anyone. He made a difference in the lives of his students, not only by teaching respiratory therapy but also by teaching compassion and excellence in healthcare. He was an educator throughout his life. One example was teaching Colleen how to go from not knowing how to crack an egg to mastering many dishes.

Many of us enjoyed Tom's culinary skills (with a specialty in Asian Cuisine), card games, and his storytelling. He was an avid reader and a formidable opponent in a variety of card and board games. Most recently, Tom spent  time volunteering at the Alaqua Animal Refuge in Freeport, both as a barista in their cafe and working with the animals. He enjoyed photography, gardening,  local musicians and frequent trips to New Orleans.  His most recent accomplishment was perfecting home baked bread. 

In his lifetime he was fortunate to travel to over 70 countries and attend countless international weddings with his loving Linda by his side. He spent most of his life living in South Florida and the last 6 years in the Florida Panhandle.

Tom knew that his life with Linda would always be an adventure. For example, in 1978, they decided to live on a sailboat in the Florida Keys for 3 years. This chapter of their life was a testament to Tom's daring spirit and love for the sea that included service in the United States Navy.

Tom's legacy goes beyond his professional accomplishments. As a professor of Respiratory Therapy, he had a profound impact on his students. He didn't just teach medicine; he instilled in his students a sense of empathy and diligence, educating them to be excellent providers. He was an inspiration and left behind a legacy that will continue to shape lives for years to come.

Tom was a Professor, clinical practitioner of Respiratory Therapy, Polysomnographer, Licensed Massage Therapist, Cardiac Sonographer, Medical Crew for Aerojet International Air Ambulance and "Dad" to many.

In honor of Tom Reid, the man who lived life with courage, authenticity, and kindness, we remember not only his achievements, but the invaluable lessons he imparted, the lives he touched, and the indelible mark he left on this world. Tom will be loved and remembered by his friends and family for an eternity. 

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