WALLACE — At 102, William J. Reid is the oldest World War II veteran in Marlboro and Chesterfield counties.

Reid was recognized during a Veterans Day Service at Grace Temple Fellowship Church on Nov. 14.

Born in Cheraw on Nov. 15, 1919, Reid was the son of the late William J. and Maggie E. Reid.

He joined the United States Army and served his country for three years, from 1943-46.

After his honorable discharge, Reid enrolled in Eckels College of Mortuary Science and received his diploma.

In 1949, he returned to Cheraw and opened Reid and Harrington Funeral Home. It later became Reid’s Funeral Home.

Reid owned and operated it for 71 years until December of 2020.

Reid was recognized with a plaque for his service and dedication to his country, county, and community.

Church members sang “Happy Birthday” to Reid and presented him with balloons and a cake.

Dr. Wayne Chapman, senior Army instructor (JROTC) at Marlboro County High School, was the speaker for the veterans service and spoke about Reid.

He talked about the characteristics of Reid and those who serve in the different branches of the military.

Chapman talked about loyalty, duty, respect, selflessness, integrity, and personal courage.

“Mr. Reid, you live those values every day,” Chapman said. “You are the definition of those values. If you go to Webster’s (dictionary) and look up any one of these, I guarantee I would see your name.”

Pastor Anthony T. Waymyers said Reid was called the father of Grace Temple Fellowship Church. Reid received a standing ovation.

He noted if it were not for Reid, the church would not be in existence.

“He allowed us to worship and start at his place,” Waymyers said. “If it weren’t for him, we would be in someone’s parking lot blowing the horn.”

Waymyers thanked Reid for being supportive of him, his family, and church.

MSGT Frank Faulkner Sr., retired/United States Marine Corps, said it was the second year Grace Temple held a Veterans Day program.

“Veterans Day presents us with the opportunity to reflect and realize those who have served and protected God’s people,” he said.

He added many people think of war when they think of the military.

“But most of the work that the veteran military personnel are called to do is in line with the mission that God called us as Christians to do,” he said. “We are called to love, to protect those who may not be able to protect themselves. We are called to help the most vulnerable.”

He reminded those in attendance that they are grateful for their service and sacrifice on Veterans Day and every day.

“Your commitment to our country and the freedom we enjoy every day is remembered and valued,” Faulkner said. “We thank you for your service.”

A special presentation was made to Chapman and other members of the military in attendance. Rev. Timothy Watson, founder, and CEO of Agave Church of America and Christian Veterans of America, spoke and handed out free audio Bibles and gave away pins developed by the Department of Defense to anyone who served during the Vietnam era 1955-75.