It was with much sadness, I heard that well known printer, John R Reid recently passed away.
John Robertson Reid passed away on 30 May 2026, aged 78. As with many prominent individuals who helped shape Blantyre and this community, here’s some words about his life and left here as a lasting legacy to his accomplishments and efforts.
Born in January 1948 and raised in Blantyre, John was a well-known figure in the local community and remained proud of his roots throughout his life. He later lived in Larkhall before making his home at Kirkfieldbank, Lanark, where he spent the last 33 years of his life.
Known throughout Lanarkshire and beyond as a printer, businessman and entrepreneur, John’s career began as an apprentice compositor with the Hamilton Advertiser. Through hard work, determination and an unwavering belief in his own abilities, he founded JR Reid Printers in 1969, building the business from humble beginnings into the highly respected JR Reid Printing Group. Over the decades, he created one of Scotland’s best-known independent printing businesses, employing generations of local people and earning a reputation for quality, innovation and service.
In Blantyre, John was respected not only for his business achievements but also for his character, work ethic and willingness to support others. Those who dealt with John often spoke of him as being a very fair man — someone who treated people properly, valued loyalty and conducted himself with honesty and integrity throughout both his business and personal life. He built lasting friendships and was a familiar and well-regarded figure to many across the town and the wider business community.
Despite his many professional achievements, family was always at the heart of John’s life. He was a devoted father to Victoria, Innes, Crawford and Carly, and a proud and much-loved grandfather to seven grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy and pride.
John will be remembered as a hardworking, tenacious and determined man who approached life with purpose and resilience. A devoted family man, he was fiercely loyal to those he loved and took enormous pride in the success and happiness of his family. His legacy lives on not only through the business he built, but through the family he cherished and the many lives he touched along the way.
He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, former colleagues and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Our thoughts are with John’s family.
