Candice ("Candy") Lee Reid, 77, of Arcadia died peacefully Sunday, October 20,2024, at Tidewell Hospice in Arcadia after a long period of declining health.  Born in Miami, Candy was the only child of Scotty and Rosie Reid. Graduating from Jackson Senior High School in Miami, she entered Miami-Dade Junior College, where she earned her A.A. degree.  Called to a vocation of Christian service, Candy continued her education by enrolling in the Presbyterian School of Christian Education in Richmond, Virginia, where she earned her B.A. and then an M.A. in Christian Education from the Richmond Theological Center. These attainments, plus her kind and gentle temperament, prepared her well for a long and distinguished professional life as a Director of Christian Education. She began her career at Arcadia's First Presbyterian Church, where among other accomplishments she was responsible for starting the church's Pre-School in 1975. Subsequently she held this position in numerous churches, serving congregations in Greensboro NC, Hershey PA, Augusta GA, Laurens SC, and Greenville SC.  She was also active in continuing education programs for presbyteries held at Montreat NC. Candy ultimately returned to Arcadia, taking a position with the Peace River Presbytery in North Port. During this time she took courses resulting in her being certified as a lay pastor. While working for the Presbytery, Candy lived in Arcadia and eventually became the loving caregiver for Margaret Way, herself a virtual Arcadia "institution" because of her more than 60 years of faithful service to the City of Arcadia and its citizens. Service and ministry were the hallmarks of Candy's life.  Although survived by no living family members, Candy is loved and remembered by numerous friends, acquaintances, and those who benefitted from her many kindnesses.  She was particularly close to her longtime friend of more than 60 years Carolyn Luter of Leander, TX, whom she lovingly referred to as her "sister." In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in Candy's memory are invited to send a contribution to the First Presbyterian Church of Arcadia, 20 North Orange Avenue, Arcadia, FL 34266, earmarking it for "Bill's Paper Angels," a program of which Candy was a devoted supporter.  A memorial service commemorating and celebrating Candy's life will be held at 11 am, Saturday, November 9, in the church sanctuary followed by a reception in Pfrangle Hall. Interment will be private.

Online condolences can be made at www.pongerkaysgrady.com

Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Homes & Cremation Services have been entrusted with the arrangements.