Dale J. Reid, a former member of the Montreat College Board of Trustees, alumna, and treasured friend of the College, died peacefully on January 5, 2026, at the age of 84, surrounded by her family.
Born on November 23, 1941, in Essex, New Jersey, Reid was raised in South Miami, Florida, where she graduated from Immaculate High School in 1959. She later enrolled at Montreat College, where she was actively engaged in campus life, serving as a class officer and being selected as May Queen. She completed her education at St. Andrews College, earning a degree in education in 1964 and pursuing her calling to teach.
Reid began her professional life as a fourth-grade teacher in Charlotte, a role that reflected her nurturing spirit and love for children. She later moved into the field of fashion merchandising, where her strengths in organization, design, and simplicity were well-suited. In 1977, she joined her husband, Don Reid, at Reid Associates Advertising and Marketing, where she played a pivotal role in the firm’s growth and development. Her work included coordinating fashion photo shoots across the Southeast and cultivating enduring relationships with clients.
Known for her quiet strength, deep faith, and gracious presence, Reid held a lasting affection for Montreat and Montreat College. She and her husband spent many years dividing their time between Charlotte and Montreat before relocating permanently to Montreat in 2018. She served the college for six years as a trustee, offering thoughtful leadership marked by wisdom, humility, and a genuine care for the community.
“Dale Reid reflected the very spirit of Montreat through her kindness, steady faith, conviction, and generous service,” said Montreat College President Paul J. Maurer. “Her voice and presence on the Board were deeply valued, and her influence will remain part of this community for years to come.”
In the final five years of her life, Reid faced Alzheimer’s disease with courage and grace. She was surrounded by devoted care from her husband and compassionate caregivers. Even as her health declined, her gentle spirit continued to shine through her expressions and smiles.
Reid is survived by her husband, Don Reid; her children, Bryan Knupp (Suzanne) and Suzy Sandbo (Dean); and her stepdaughters, Kem Johnson (Tim), Jennifer Reid, Donna Nogay (Brian), and Mary Catherine Fallon (Vince). She was a devoted grandmother to eleven grandchildren and a great-grandmother to five. She is also survived by her siblings, Penny Isop, Anchen Hartman, and Mark Bura.