In Memory of

Class of 1972
Jan 11, 1954 - Jul 09, 2026

Lon Robert Reid, 72, of Montvale, Virginia, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2026.



Born on January 11, 1954, in Roanoke, Virginia, Lon lived life on his own terms-with curiosity and an unmistakable free spirit. A hippie at heart, he found joy in the simple things: good music, good friends and time spent outdoors.



Music was a tremendous part of Lon's life. An exceptional old-time and bluegrass musician, he could pick up nearly any instrument and make it come alive. He didn't simply play music-he helped keep it alive. Whether at a front porch gathering, a festival, or an impromptu jam session, Lon understood that the best music was shared. He left behind countless memories measured not in performances, but in the friendships forged around a circle of musicians.



Lon possessed an adventurous soul and an eye for discovering what others overlooked. He loved searching for artifacts and forgotten treasures. He was an accomplished horseman who deeply loved animals of every kind, with a special affection for his feline companions.



He had a quick wit and a sharp sense of humor. Lon was a steadfast supporter of the underdog, always willing to lend a hand, and stand beside someone who needed an ally. He never met a stranger for long. Whether discussing, music, horses, or simply swapping stories, he had a way of making people feel welcome. His interests were as varied as the people he met, and carried him through a life filled with friendships that spanned generations and communities.



Those who knew Lon knew he seemed to have a remarkable ability to walk away from situations that would have stopped most. Having survived more than one electrifying encounter, he often met life's challenges with resilience, determination, and the kind of humor that became one of his trademarks.



Lon was preceded in death by his mother, Joan Kittinger Shannon; his stepfather, William Ralph Shannon; his stepmother, Barbara Ralston Reid; his brother, Toby Thomas Shannon; and his great friend, Thomas Fred Payne.



Lon is survived by his father, Arthur "Big Jim" Russel Reid Jr; his loving wife, Nancy Young Reid; his son, Robert Lon Reid (fiancé Victoria Lorraine Branscome); his daughter, Corey Lyn Reid (husband Chris Allen Collins); children's mother Lynne Burkholder (daughter Catharine Burkholder); his brother, James Everette Reid (wife Elizabeth Reid); his sister, Eva Shannon; and his cherished grandchildren, Cora Brooklyn Reid, Aynslee Mattox Reid, and Cillian Allen Reid; Carter Reese Collins and Wesley Mason Collins. He also leaves behind an extended family and long list of lifelong friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.



In keeping with Lon's wishes, there will be no formal funeral or visitation. Instead, family and friends will gather later this year for a music jam in celebration of his life-a fitting tribute to a man whose greatest joy was sitting in a circle of friends, instrument in hand, adding one more tune to the evening. Details will be announced at a later date.



In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to an animal rescue organization of your choice. Organizations that held a special place in Lon's heart included Roanoke Valley Horse Rescue and local no-kill animal shelters.



Though Lon's hands have been laid to rest, the music he shared, the stories, the laughter and the friendships will continue to echo for generations. Some people leave behind possessions. Lon left behind songs, stories, and friends.