Lee R. Reese

Affectionately known as “Little Leroy,” Lee R. Reese was born on May 17, 1984, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Carolyn Reese and Lee R. Lovelace. He departed this life on September 19, 2025, at the age of 41. Lee was preceded in death by both of his parents.

Lee received his education through the Kansas City Public School System and was a proud graduate of Paseo High School, Class of 2002. Following high school, he attended Job Corps, where he met LaTasha Jefferson, his special friend and the mother of his children.

Family was Lee’s greatest joy and purpose. He absolutely adored his children and siblings. After the passing of his parents, Lee graciously and wholeheartedly stepped into the role of protector and provider, always ensuring his family was cared for and supported. His siblings knew they could always count on their big brother; he was only ever a phone call away.

To know Lee was to love him. His infectious smile, a gift from his father, lit up every room he entered. Lee had a natural gift for bringing laughter to those around him. As a true jokester, he delighted in making others laugh and always found a way to bring joy to any gathering.

Lee’s legacy of love, protection, and laughter will forever live on through his children, family, and all who were blessed to know him.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his beloved children, Johnathan Phillip Jefferson and Allyson Jefferson; his brothers, John Anderson and Phillip R. Lovelace; his sisters, Lee Etta Colum (Anthony), Clester Lovelace, & Clara Lovelace; his special friend, LaTasha Jefferson; as well as a host of uncles, aunts, nephews, cousins, and close friends who will miss him deeply.