Elder Benjamin P. Reid

Elder Benjamin P. Reid, beloved husband of the late Mother Laverne B. Reid, transitioned from labor to reward, leaving behind a powerful legacy of wisdom, faith, and love. Known for his quiet strength, generosity, and deep devotion to God, Elder Reid lived to serve—his family, his church, and his community.

A native of Cross, South Carolina, Elder Reid relocated to New York shortly after graduating from Central High. He began his career at Rockland State Hospital in 1955. A dedicated worker and compassionate soul, he remained there until retirement, keeping in touch with many former colleagues who valued his encouragement and integrity.

In 1957, he united in holy matrimony with Laverne Butler Reid. Their marriage of over six decades was rooted in faith, devotion, and shared ministry. Together, they raised two children: Bishop Sylvester K. Reid, and Velma J. Owens.

A man of the cloth, Elder Reid pastored in the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church for many years. In 1988, he experienced a pivotal moment in his spiritual walk when he received the baptism of the Holy Ghost with the evidence of speaking in tongues. That encounter ignited a deeper level of spiritual purpose and intimacy with God.

He was also a lover of knowledge and remained informed through avid reading. Elder Reid subscribed to and read The New York Times, New York Post, Amsterdam News, and The Berkeley Independent—a South Carolina newspaper he cherished. He was known to walk over 50 blocks, from 98th Street to Midtown Manhattan, just to stay current with the world around him.

Elder Reid had a love for gospel music allowing his home to be filled with various melodies from God. Elder Reid enjoyed periodic trips to the south to reunite with his roots. On these trips down south, he ensured the backseat of the car was reserved for his beloved wife Laverne’s hats and dresses. On his return, he brought back Southern staples like dry green lima beans, yellow grits, and preserves from his eldest brother Jessie.

A man of extraordinary hospitality, Elder Reid welcomed many into his home—family, missionaries, and members of Refuge Temple—without hesitation. His generosity was quiet but wide-reaching. He often opened his doors without saying a word to his wife, knowing that love meant never turning someone away.

Together with Mother Laverne Reid, they lived the commandment: “Love thy neighbor as thyself.” Their home was a ministry of its own—offering comfort, refuge, and love to all who entered.

Elder Benjamin P. Reid leaves to cherish his memory his beloved children, Bishop Sylvester K. Reid, now Pastor of Refuge Temple in Columbia, South Carolina, and Velma J. Owens of Providence, RI; his cherished grandchildren, Jason Owens, and Sivad Khiry Reid; his devoted daughter-in-love, Frances Reid. He is also lovingly remembered by his eldest brother, Jessie Reid, along with a host of extended family members, church members, spiritual sons and daughters, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 68 years, Mother Laverne B. Reid; and his goddaughter, Delores Addison.

Elder Reid’s legacy is one of unwavering faith, sacrificial love, and quiet leadership. He served his generation with dignity and will be remembered as a man who truly walked with God.

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