About Us

The first James Reid founded his business in 1854, when the population of Kingston and area was about 15,000 and 30 to 40 vessels crowded into the city’s harbour. James purchased a tavern at 254 Princess Street, renovated it and turned it into a furniture and casket factory. James Reid eventually passed his knowledge and business on to his son Fred, who continued to expand the funeral services. Fred was succeeded by his son James W. Reid, who became a respected Kingston figure known for his business ability. James W. Reid and his sons, Jim and David Reid, took the family business to a new level, adding a second funeral home in 1973 and a second furniture store in 1979, both located on John Counter Blvd.

Jim and David Reid, the fourth generation of the Reid family, presently co-own and run James Reid Limited.
The original Princess Street storefront has been historically restored and houses an expanded furniture store. The Princess Street funeral home was closed in 1990 because of its limitations to meet the increasing needs of families. The James Reid Funeral Home at 1900 John Counter Blvd is the sole location now, complete with Reception Centre, Crematorium, and plenty of parking.  Original artefacts, letters and photographs from the family's nineteenth and twentieth century history are on display in the John Counter Blvd funeral home. James Reid's is proud to be family-owned and family-run after all these years.

Jim is proud of the service to Kingston families he and his staff provide today, with many yesterdays to build upon.

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hands of a couple holding a photo frameOur History

We stand behind our reputation and will continue to serve our community. Our family business has flourished for 165 years by continually adapting and always keeping watch over the details. 

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The Professional and Dedicated Funeral Directors and Management of James Reid Funeral HomeOur TEam

Our dedicated and supportive staff are here to guide you through this difficult journey. We take pride in doing our absolute best to ensure your needs are met. We are here for you. 

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Our Facilities

Our home is yours. Please, take some time to familiarize yourself with it; we've worked hard to make our home as warm and as inviting as possible. 

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Contact Us

Looking for something you can't find? We make it easy to get the answers you need.  Please feel free to contact us at any time.

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Jim and Sarah Reid in the Selection Room In the News

James Reid Funeral Home is proud to be involved in the Kingston community. Click on to read more about the latest events and news, including the Globe and Mail article of January 2022.

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Accessibility Policy

The purpose of this policy is designed to give persons with disabilities an opportunity to access our property with as much ease and respect as possible and to be treated as an equal. James Reid Limited policies, procedures and attitude are to provide dignity, integration and equality of opportunity.

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Our Blog

We are pleased to share information about funeral work and life as a funeral director. Please feel free to read on for more.

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