Gary Reese

Gary Lewis Reese 78, passed away January 16, 2021 at Saint Luke's on the Plaza. He was born July 24, 1942 in Centropolis, Missouri, the eighth child of twelve born to the union of Edward and Leona (Thompson) Reese. He was proceeded in death by his parents; his wife Doris M. Reese; eight brothers, Edward Jr., Oliver Lynn, Harvey Lee, Clifford (Red), Ernest, Curtis, Clayton (KK) and Duane (Killer) Reese; two sisters, Shirlyne and Dianne; and a special niece Krishawn T. Marshall.

Gary was educated in the Kansas City, Missouri School District and attended Lincoln High School where he excelled in sports. He loved all sports and played with his brothers and neighborhood friends. Even as adults, these friends continued playing softball on Sundays, with spouses, children, and friends as spectators. Two of his sports-bowling and basketball -became more than hobbies. They led to Gary becoming a member of three professional teams -Washington General, which traveled playing against the Harlem Globetrotters; the General Motors Bowling Team and the Fred Broski Bowling Circuit. He won many bowling awards and trophies as he traveled around the Country.

No matter where Gary traveled or whatever he did in life, his greatest love was being around his family and friends, playing cards and dominos.

He was drafted to the Vietnam War on April 3, 1964. His major assignment was in the field of Artillery, where he became a Rifle expert, achieving the rank PFC E-3 (P). He received the Vietnam Service Medal, Expert (Rifle) Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. He was Honorably Discharged and served with the Reserves until April 2, 1970.

When he returned Home from the Vietman War, he met the love of his life, Doris Marie Yarber. They were married March 29, 1969. During the union they had one baby girl, Octavia LaTreece Reese (Pumkyn), born 3 days before his birthday. Octavia was his birthday present!

After returning home, Gary had several jobs including concrete finisher and retired from General Motors Assembly Plant. During this time Gary became the President of a social club called "The Group," the membership largely consisting of his brothers and neighborhood friends. The Group sponsored many parties, held fundraisers, and sponsored a Girls' softball team for many years.

Gary accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at the Prince of Peace Missionary Baptist Church. He later dedicated his life to Jesus uniting with the Palestine Missionary Baptist Church where he was an active member in Bible School and vacation Bible School. He loved music and attended musicals by the Palestine choir.

Gary leaves to cherish his memory -his daughter Octavia L. Reese (Pumkyn); one brother Ronald Reese; his Mother-in-law, Emma Jean Yarber; four sisters-in-law, Allie B. Reese, Ruby J. Reese, Willa Jean Reese, Yvonne(Wobble) Yarber-Collins; one brother-in-law, Jerry L. Yarber; one special nephew, Ka'Ron T. Marshall (whom he was raising) all of Kansas City, Mo.; one special daughter, Sherry D. Smith of Kansas City, Ks.; and a host of nephews, nieces and other relatives and friends.

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