Ernest George Reid, KC
April 17, 1943 to July 19, 2025
Obituary
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.
Visitations will be held at Carnell’s Funeral Home on Thursday, July 24th (2 p.m. to 4 p.m. & 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.); Friday, July 25th (2 p.m. to 4 p.m. & 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.).
Funeral service will be held on Saturday, July 26th, 11:00 a.m. at the Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist followed by inurnment at the Anglican Cemetery, Forest Road.
Reception at Elks Club, 19 Carpasian Road, 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Gathering Place.
Schedule
Visitations
2-4 p.m. on July 24, 2025
7-9 p.m. on July 24, 2025
2-4 p.m. on July 25, 2025
7-9 p.m. on July 25, 2025
Carnell’s Funeral Home
329 Freshwater Road
View on Map
funeral
11:00am, Saturday July 26th
Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
Church Street, St. John's
Interment to follow in the Anglican Cemetery, Forest Rd.
RECEPTION TO FOLLOW INTERMENT AT THE ELK'S CLUB, 19 CARPASIAN RD. FROM 2-4:30 P.M.
Ellen and family. Our condolences and thoughts go out to you all on the passing of your father. Maureen and Jim
Ellen, Charlotte and Andrew… I was so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. He was so respected by our family over the years. Please accept our condolences.
Elaine Rusted Hyde
Ernie was a dear and sweet man. I always enjoyed seeing him over the Yrs. at the Crow’s Nest. He always had a smile and a fun chat. People adored him and he will be missed by so many.
My sincere condolences to both Ellen and Charlotte, he sounded like a wonderful person who will be greatly missed.
Aunt Ellen,
I’m so sorry to hear of your father’s passing. I wish I could be there in person to offer my support. Thinking of you, and sending my love and condolences.
My sincer condolences to all the family of Ernie. I new him through Rotary many years ago and more recently in the Naval Association of Canada, Newfoundland Branch. He was a staunch supporter with great wisdom. Great person.
He will be greatly missed
Don Peckham
In the short time I have known Ernie, he did a lot for me,. that was far from adequate for his historical interest and encouragement of writing down verbal past and appreciating the painting of his old neighborhood…Til we meet again Earnie!
Dear Ellen, Charlotte and Andrew, our deepest condolences on Ernie’s passing. He was such a nice, funny guy and a great neighbour.. I would have such great chats when I would run into him when I was walking Bear and he and Bear got along great. Now they have both passed on . If Jean-Marc and I can be of any help or support, please let us know.. Danielle and Jean-Marc Lemelin 3 Primrose place.
Ellen, Charlotte and Andrew.
and all the extended family.
Condolences to you all on the passing of your Dad.
He was an outstanding individual and he will be missed.
But treasure the memories of great times you all had.
Michael, Annette and Patrick Boyle
My sincerest condolences on your father’s passing.. We met at cardiology rehabilitation class where he was well known and respected by all.
Even as a little boy, Ernie was the sweet, good-natured person his friends and colleagues have been describing so vividly here. He was happy and jolly, with a smattering of freckles across his nose and a permanent big grin. We lived a few doors in from the Reids on Newtown Road. Ernie and I were the same age and were solid besties, often playing in the Reids’ backyard “summer house,” where he kept his prized collection of creepy crawlies. In later years I was treated to the occasional eloquent note or card from Ernie. When I last saw him, two years ago, he was the same as ever: thoughtful, full of stories and quips, and genuinely interested in everyone around him. Ernie was one in a million. Deepest condolences to his loving and devoted children and grandchildren.
Offering deepest condolences to the Reid family at this difficult time. I know how much Mr. Reid was loved by his children, and it has been a pleasure to learn about the many positive contributions that he has made in his community over his lifetime. I hope that fond memories of time spent together and the love and support of those around you bring some measure of comfort and peace to his family and friends.
I have very fond memories of Ernie when working at Stewart McKelvey. He was a generous and kind leader, and I could always count on him for good advice.. My condolences to his family.
My sincere condolances to the family at this sad time…may your memories be a blessing and may Ernie rest in Eternal Peace.
To Ernie’s family, he was a guy who I only got to meet at NL Cardiac Class this past year. It didn’t take much time doing our walks around the gym to begin to understand this iconic individual and his tremendous wit and comradery . He will be missed in his absence but forever remembered for having been a friend..
Your Dad was a great friend to my Father (he was Ernest in my family). I met him in law, Rotary and NACNL. I always looked forward to his visits, and will sincerely miss him.. A true Gentleman..
John P. Andrews, Ferryland
Ellen Beth, Charlotte and Andrew
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your wonderful father . We had the pleasure of being neighbours of your parents on First Avenue many years ago and witnessed their delight when baby Ellen Beth joined the family. Take solace in knowing your mom and dad are together again.
Sincerest condolences to the Reid family. The Eddy and Reid families were friends for many years. Lots of fond memories of our younger days.
John Eddy and family
Ernie truly was an officer and a gentleman. My father spoke highly if him through their association in naval officer affairs. And I had the privilege of many interactions with him as a lawyer. He was well regarded and, more importantly, was kind and funny. A great loss. My deepest condolences to his family.
Sincerely
Robert Stack
We offer our sincere condolences to the Reid family on their sad loss..
Michael and Alice Furlong
Ellen, Charlotte and Andrew, and all the family,
Words can not express how saddened the members of the Newfoundland Cardiac Rehabilitation Association are to hear of Ernie’s Passing.
He was only with us for over a year, but his presence at class will forever be missed..
A kind, pleasant, full of humour individual for sure.
I as well will miss him so much.
Barb
Ellen, Charlotte, Andrew & Family: We are so sorry to hear about your Dad. He was such a sweet, kind man. He will be greatly missed. Sending hugs and prayers.
Ellen, Charlotte, Andrew and family – I was so saddened to hear of your dad’s death. Although we didn’t see each other often, he was always so supportive, especially in my years in ministry. I always think fondly of our extended family gatherings (usually around Christmas), but also remember fun times at Georgetown, too. I also appreciated his smile and good humour. Holding you all in my heart as you grieve. Peace to you all.
We are so saddened to hear this news. Ernie was a kind and wonderful man – a great leader and a great mentor.. Please accept our sincere condolences.
The Reid family,
When I joined the NL Bar in 1972, Ernie was 5 years my senior, a huge cavern for a young inexperienced lawyer. He immediately treated me as an equal, that is, with respect, collegiality and professional support. He was then, and remained throughout his life, a consummate gentleman. His life’s achievements are well documented in his obituary as well as in the words of his colleagues.
It has been many years since we have been in each other’s company, but I will still miss his wit and wisdom. He was an icon of his generation.
You have .my sincere condolences on his passing. And thank you, Ernie, for your friendship.
It is with a heavy heart that I extend my deepest condolences on behalf of the Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador. Mr. Reid’s steadfast service as Chancellor was a blessing to our Diocese, marked by wisdom, dedication, and faith. May you find comfort in God’s love and the cherished memories you hold. Our prayers are with you during this time of sorrow.
In Christ’s peace,
The Rt. Rev’d Samuel Rose
Bishop of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador
Ellen, charlotte and Andrew
I expect you know how much I admired your dad – he was one of the best. He was a dedicated father, husband, volunteer, community leader, – yet successfully managed a very busy law practice. Your dad began his legal career with my dad, and when I entered the profession he was my principal (mentor). He was a big influence on my life and career – always so supportive – generously referring clients to me. A great man – leaving behind a great legacy through his children and through his many kind deeds. I will be thinking of you all over the coming days. Sending my sympathies.
Condolences to all family and the multitude of friends of Ernie-i first met Ernie whille he at Stirling Ryan-etc.Duckworth St..John’s;-He acted on a goodly number of Real Estate transactions, for my client,’s, either buying OR selling.WE got along very well-=Always had the required paperwork for closing sales.on his desk-Ready for ‘Pen TO Paper’.And whenever we met on the Street,he always had time for a short chat-Our thoughts and Prayers;GOD BLESS-JIM Campbell(EX RCAF-REt’D)(RETIRED-REAL ESTATE BROKER-OWNER-after 62 Years St. John’s-WIFE NELIA CAMPBELL) ST. John’s-NFLD)-NEVER A 51st State.)
I had the pleasure of knowing Ernie for many years. He was at the top of the class in the legal field, had a fine sense of humor but most of all he was a true gentleman. RIP my friend.
On behalf of The C.B.S C.L.B OLD COMRADES LODGE # 2 We extend our deepest condolences to Ernie’s children and Grandchildren we are keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers as you get through this difficult time
Debbie Warford
Secretary
We had the pleasure of meeting Ernie through the Cardiac exercise group. He always had a quip and a friendly word. Our sincere condolences to his family.
John and Anne MacDonald
Ellen and the Reid Family,
Heartfelt condolences for your father’s passing. He was such a kind gentleman and a well-respected lawyer. He will be greatly missed.
Ellen –Charlotte -Andrew and Ernie`s extended family –
Sadness prevails- as I read that my very good friend – Ernest G Reid -K C -has made his exit from the stage of life –
Quite a life indeed — his various endeavors and accomplishments are well covered in his obituary .
A life truly well lived indeed.
Ernie had a tremendous sense of humor –he loved to talk about various aspects of his life —
The CLB –The Fieldians –The Cathedral –The Navy — Rotary –et al –
All these were dear to his heart and benefited from his involvement –
He loved to say he was working “ at warp speed “ on various files –
He was a very able Attorney and represented his clients with skill and dedication.
He was a mentor to me in the early days of my career – that was very helpful –
He and Peg were a wonderful couple –they raised a fine family and had a happy life together .
Ernie was just a terrific person –he had many friends who will remember him with warmth and fondness –
He is now at rest and may that rest be in peace —
Godspeed Ernie
From an old school friend at Bishops, I offer my sincere condolences to the family.
From an old school friend at Bushops, I offer my sincere condolences to the family.
Ellen, Charlotte, Andrew and family.
We are so very sorry for your loss. Uncle Ernie was a gem of an uncle – always kind, gracious and had a great sense of humour. We loved visiting him and Aunt Peg on our visits home to Nfld. Unfortunately we won’t be home for his funeral, but will be keeping you all in our thoughts and sending peace your way.
It’s lovely to think he and Aunt Peg are sharing a new “experience” together again. ❤️
Love,
Anne and Andrew
Kate, Rachel and Jonah
Mr. Reid was a wonderful man who looked after affairs for our family (especially my mother) at a very difficult time. I shall always remember his kindness.
I we are so sorry for your loss. I only knew your father through your stories and he sounded like a great and honourable person.
Dear Ellen, Charlottes and and Andrew,
I was saddened to here on the loss of your Dad,
We were good friends through the years and always enjoyed a chat with him at Rotary meetings.
My thoughts and Prayers go out to you and your family.
Blessings Mrs Ellis
Dear Ellen, Charlottes and Andrew,
It’s with great sadness that I heard the news of your Dad’s passing. I always enjoyed a conversation with him when he and I attended Rotary.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your families.
Blessings,
Barbara Ellis
Dear Ellen, Andrew, Charlotte, and families,
We are so sorry to hear of Uncle Ernie’s passing. He was the undisputed king of wit among my many uncles. And I remember his and Aunt Peggy’s kindness 50 years ago, with Aunt Patty and Uncle Frank, when I visited Newfoundland to find out that I didn’t want to be a lawyer — too much work and brains required, better left to Uncles Ernie and Frank! Even at Jen’s wedding years ago, Uncle Ernie could be the quiet wit in the corner, and still be, for us, the life of the party. A kind and good man with a mean, but not too mean streak of wit. Our sincerest condolences, Marty and Carolyn
Sincerest condolences to Ernie’s family. He certainly was one of the real treasures that The Cardiac Rehab has known and will be greatly missed with his smile, cheerfulness and humour!
Kathleen Scott (Kay)
I was in the Rotary Club of St. John’s Northwest with Ernie for many many years. I always enjoyed my time and chats with Ernie especially when I was a young lawyer myself. Ernie was always a pleasure to be around, and he will be greatly missed at our Rotary meetings.
I am so sorry to learn of Mr. Reid’s passing. He was such a kind and generous man. My thoughts are with your family at this time.
Ellen, Mark and Family.
My heart is so heavy for you all . What a light to us all your dad was ! I will sorely miss that twinkle in his eyes and our racy chats ( most of which were not fit to repeat! ) We shared our humour and our love for the “shock value” . Through it all he remained a gentleman, a man of his word and a kind, kind soul . Rest in Peace my dear Friend .
I remember Ernie was an outstanding lawyer, and fine example as I developed my practice, and more importantly a fine human being and gentle person, of great wit.
To the Reid family, please accept our condolences.
Ernie was a true gentleman, a fine lawyer and a strong mentor to Stewart McKelvey lawyers (and its predecessors) and to many other members of the Bar. The legal profession should aspire to meet Ernie’s high ethical standards of practice. It was a pleasure to have worked with Mr. Reid.
To Ernie’s family, I’m sorry to learn of your Dad’s passing. He was well-respected in the legal profession and valued for his contributions to community organizations. I hope that you find comfort in the memories you shared during his life well-lived. I extend sincere condolences. Linda Harnett
I was very sorry to learn of Ernie’s passing. I was his last articled clerk before he retired from Stewart McKelvey. I learned a lot from him – especially how to get to many places in St. John’s without having to go through a traffic light! I let me tag along to many Rotary lunches and even took me to the Crow’s Nest. Sincere condolences.