James Lamar Reid was born January 29, 1983 in St. Louis, Missouri to the union of Robert & Vernita Reid. He was the 8th child of sixteen children to this union. Being born under the promise and raised with the fear and admonition of God, James confessed his faith in Christ at an early age. James received his formal education from East Saint Louis and Belleville public school districts and later attended Barber College.

From an early age, James displayed a magnetic personality. He was charismatic, tenacious, and possessed a comedic charm that could always lighten the mood. As he matured in age, his wit, charisma, and playful nature flourished. James had a competitive streak and displayed standout strength and athleticism among his peers in sports (basketball, football, track, and boxing). James loved children and they were drawn to him as well; he was prone to entertaining them with jokes and funny impressions. He loved interacting with people, from making them laugh to provoking deep and meaningful dialogues. James was loving, sensitive, and caring yet passionate, strong-willed, and resilient. Although James was often impulsive, challenging, and outspoken, his repentant heart stood out; he was always apt to apologize after any offense or misguided action. He could make you laugh, yell and cry all in the same conversation. He loved his family and his family loved him.

James L. Reid was called home to rest on July 4, 2018. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Columbus Reid, Wilbert Moore, and Willie Mae Moore; his older brother, Robert Reid, Jr.; niece, Stephany Reid. He leaves to cherish his memories both parents, Robert Reid Sr. and Vernita Reid; grandmother, Ann Reid; ten brothers, Lorenzo Reid, Stephen Reid, Anthony Reid, Jermaine (Dominique) Reid, Joshua (Kiyara) Reid, Lyle Reid, Kyle Reid, Reco (Tiana) Reid, Ryan (Ronniecia) Reid, and Marco Moton; five sisters, Teresa (Roland) Whitley, Latora (Drury) Webb, Crystal (Terry) Dugan, Tiffany Reid, and Kyla Reid; twenty-nine nieces and nephews, one great nephew, and a host of uncles, aunts, cousins, and other loved ones.