12/13/2023
Tribute to BJ by his family..
BJ will be missed by so many…
He would want to thank his many friends and customers that has been coming to his store for so many years…
He enjoyed visiting and helping you find the treasures that you searched for…
BJ, my friend, you will be missed 💕
Phyllis
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
🌟 Remembering Billy Joe "BJ" Reida, and to some, Dad, Uncle Bill, brother, and friend 🌟
With a heart as big as his smile and a mischievous sense of humor that lit up every room, Billy Joe ‘BJ’ Reida lived a life marked by generosity, laughter, and a profound love for life. Affectionately known as BJ, Dad, Uncle Bill, brother, and friend, he left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who had the pleasure of knowing him. Today, with heavy hearts, we share the news of his passing on December 10, 2023, at the age of 81.
BJ was a character like no other - ornery in the most endearing way. His mischievous smile, especially noticeable when he was caught in the midst of a joke or teasing his nurses, will be remembered fondly.
BJ lived life on his own terms, independently and with a generous spirit. He blessed this world for 81 years. For the last 21 years, he ran an antique shop, not for profit, but for the joy of creating smiles and friendships—and likely so he could shop and call it work. Mitch (his son) would always say, “If my dad has a dime, he’d spend a quarter,” but it was always for the purpose of bringing joy to others. He had a talent for finding just the right item for anyone, devoting hours, days, and months to this pursuit.
His passion for antiquing, shared with his beloved aunt Barbara, was more than a hobby; it was a way of life. And let's not forget his love for Bingo! Among the cherished memories, we found a framed Bingo card in his house, a testament to a lucky $800 win. He loved Marilyn Monroe and collected everything from wine to cross stitch to framed pictures, and of course his Pickle Casters, something I didn't know existed until we met. His knowledge of antiques was a passion he loved to share.
A true fan of true crime series, Game of Thrones, and a master of Solitaire, BJ always found joy in the simple pleasures. Lately, every evening, we would hear about his day over the phone - movies watched, time spent with his a new friend Mike, and stories only BJ could tell. He never met a stranger and always had a story to share, with a laugh that accompanied every story to highlight his personality, shenanigans, and tomfoolery.
BJ taught us to make the best of every situation, to live life fully and joyfully. As we remember BJ, let's celebrate the countless smiles he brought into our lives.
Rest in peace, BJ. Your legacy of laughter, friendship, and love will live on in our hearts.
🩷🩵💜Love you double ♥️🧡💛
There will be no services by BJ’s request. A private family service will be organized at a later date. Donations to your favorite charity in his memory would be appreciated.