Claudia P. Smith-Reid

Claudia P. Smith-Reid obituary, Roxbury, MA

Claudia P. Smith-Reid

Claudia Smith-Reid Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Davis Funeral Home - Mattapan on Jun. 24, 2025.

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Born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts, Claudia was the youngest child of the late Edna (Bynoe) Smith of Barbados and Roy Carlton Smith of Cuba. In 1966, at just 14 years old, Claudia joined the inaugural class of students in the Metropolitan Council for Educational Opportunity (METCO) program. Through METCO, she commuted to Wellesley High School, where she broke barriers as the school's first non-white cheerleader and found herself embraced by a community of compassionate educators and peers.
She later reflected on that time as an "adventure"-an era that ignited her love of education and introduced her to environments that helped her thrive. Claudia credited those early experiences in Wellesley for shaping her belief in limitless possibility. "It was a place where I could dream," she once said, supported by teachers who ensured her academic success and personal growth.
Graduating from Wellesley High School in 1970, Claudia enrolled in Syracuse University's Fashion Design program. She quickly became known as a pace-setter and trailblazer­ impeccably styled, fearless in her self-expression, and always one step ahead of the trend. Among her peers, she stood out-not only for her distinctive fashion but for her vibrant spirit and warmth. She was the first in her circle to own a Mercedes Benz, which she purchased from one of her professors, setting a quietly iconic example of aspiration and achievement. Claudia's presence was magnetic-ever-pleasant and always smiling. She had no enemies, only admirers.
Her off-campus home on Nobb Hill, a rare haven for students at the time, became a cultural and culinary retreat. Claudia's generosity knew no bounds-sharing hearty, lovingly prepared meals and offering a nurturing space for friends and classmates. Her legendary annual homecoming cook-offs were the stuff of Syracuse lore: friendly but fierce culinary duels between her mother Edna and close friend Iris, with hungry crowds eagerly savoring every dish. These cook-offs weren't just events-they were expressions of culture, community, and joy.
Throughout her life, Claudia held true to her identity as a community nurturer and cultural ambassador. She earned multiple advanced degrees with distinction, including an MBA from Anna Maria College and a Master of Education from the University of Massachusetts. Her career spanned public service and education, including leadership roles at the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority, the U.S. Census Bureau, Bunker Hill Community College, the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority, and the New England Patriots, where she served as Director of Public Affairs.
In 1994, Claudia married her beloved husband, Robert F. Reid, with whom she shared three decades of partnership until his passing in July 2024. Together, they built a life of devotion and joy-marked by a deep connection to their Boston roots, world-infused cooking, and a home always open to others. Claudia's laughter, her legendary soul food, and her natural ability to connect across generations made her a second mother and treasured friend to many.
Claudia is survived by her sister, Gwendolyn E. Mitchell; her children, Kayla Dame Zoe Reid and Kyle Dean Zuri Reid; her niece, Stephanie R. Mitchell; her nephew, Troy C. Mitchell; her grandnephews, Vecus J. Mitchell and Alex C. Mitchell; her grandniece, Damahn S. Marques; her sister-in-law, Marilyn Smith; her nieces, Cherryle and Catherine Smith; and a vast network of extended family, former students, colleagues, and dear friends. She was predeceased by her brother, Claude Eduardo Smith.
Claudia Patricia Smith Reid leaves behind an extraordinary legacy-a legacy born of educational courage, nurtured by cultural pride, and rooted in unwavering kindness. Her radiant spirit, forged by youthful adventure and grown through decades of service, will continue to illuminate the paths of all who knew and loved her.
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August 14, 2025

Jaclyn Easterling posted to the memorial.

August 2, 2025

Rosemarie Roy posted to the memorial.

July 11, 2025

Owen Kane posted to the memorial.

Jaclyn Easterling

August 14, 2025

I am shocked to learn of Claudia's passing. I knew her as kids growing up in Boston, although she was a peer of my younger sister. Her sister Gwendolyn, called Giggles, was my peer. Her parents were friends of my mother and other family members. Her family set the example of full commitment in and for the community. I'd encounter her in public spaces most recently this past spring. My sister, Lana, an artist and she were both among METCO's first wave of students. Summer before last we were all together at Playhouse in the Park. Her spirit was infectious and old ties picked up instantly. My sincere condolences to Gwen, her children and the rest of the family.

Rosemarie Roy

August 2, 2025

Claudia your CT friends love you and you are definitely missed by the pool in Newport. You made our day every time we saw you. I´m so saddened to read you have passed but know you are flying high and happy. May God bless your children and family. Love you Rose and Bill Roy.

Owen Kane

July 11, 2025

I enjoyed working with Claudia these many years at MassDOT and the MBTA. But more than that, I loved being her friend. She patted me on the back when I did something right and whacked me even harder when I did something wrong. I´ll never forget her. And I can never thank her enough for her kindness, wisdom and empathy. My condolences to her family and friends. I´m proud to have been her friend.
Owen Kane
Deputy General Counsel.

Monica G Tibbits-Nutt

July 8, 2025

I had the honor of knowing Claudia Smith-Reid for nearly 20 years. Working alongside her at the MBTA and MassDOT was a gift-she was not only a colleague but also a mentor and a true friend. Claudia taught me so much, not just about the world of transportation, but about how to succeed with grace, resilience, and heart. Her impact on this field is lasting, and her influence on my life is immeasurable. She will always be remembered-especially by those of us who had the privilege of learning from her and walking beside her. -Secretary Monica Tibbits-Nutt

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Monica Tibbits-Nutt

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Monica G Tibbits-Nutt

July 8, 2025

I had the honor of knowing Claudia Smith-Reed for nearly 20 years. Working alongside her at the MBTA and MassDOT was a gift-she was not only a colleague but also a mentor and a true friend. Claudia taught me so much, not just about the world of transportation, but about how to succeed with grace, resilience, and heart. Her impact on this field is lasting, and her influence on my life is immeasurable. She will always be remembered-especially by those of us who had the privilege of learning from her and walking beside her. -Secretary Monica Tibbits-Nutt

Jacquelyn Goddard

July 7, 2025

Claudia was a ray of sunshine at MassDOT. Whenever our paths would cross, she would give a huge hello, a big smile, and friendly greeting. We miss her presence and extend our sympathies to her dear family and friends. Sincerely, Jacquelyn Goddard

Michael Kozu

July 7, 2025

On behalf of Project RIGHT, Inc., we extend our deepest sympathies to the family of Claudia Smith-Reid. We will miss her active participation in her neighborhood association and for her leadership in making Grove Hall a better place to live.

Christine M. Bond

July 1, 2025

We lift our precious sister-friend, Claudia Smith Reid up in praise and celebration. Cookie and I had the privilege of knowing Claudia and her family for 50 years. We were her across the street neighbors on Crawford for 20 years. Then, we became colleagues at the MBTA-MassDOT where she eventually joined my team. Claudia was a coalition and employee skills builder who helped me and our team build MassDOT University. I called Claudia the "Mayor" of the T because she knew everyone; much like her precious Mom, Edna Bynoe-Smith was the "Mayor" of Crawford Street. Precious family our hearts are yours. Love you, Chris Bond and Cookie Shepard

Pat Harris

June 28, 2025

I was very sad to learn of the passing of my friend and co-worker. My sincerest condolences and prayers to Kayla and Kyle. Claudia, thank you for years of friendship and laughter. Your memories will live forever. RIHP.

Pat Harris

Tiffani Bordonaro

June 26, 2025

My thoughts, love, and prayers are being sent to the Smith Reid family during this difficult time. To Kayla and Kyle, I´m so sorry for your loss. This road is going to be long and difficult but with each passing day life will get a little easier. I´ll be praying for you both. Love Tiffani (your hygienist at Central Square Smiles)

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Davis Funeral Home - Mattapan

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Not sure what to say?

August 14, 2025

Jaclyn Easterling posted to the memorial.

August 2, 2025

Rosemarie Roy posted to the memorial.

July 11, 2025

Owen Kane posted to the memorial.