Gary W. Reese

Reese, 79, passed away February 15, 2025 at his home in Jackson, Tennessee.

Gary W. Reese was born on May 22, 1945 in St. Louis, Missouri to the late John L. Reese and the late Alice Nipper Whiteaker. He was raised in Marmaduke, Arkansas by his maternal grandparents, the late Theo and Katie Nipper.

After graduating high school, Reese joined the Marine Corps and served two tours of duty in Vietnam, where he received a Purple Heart. Reese was a graduate of Union University and earned his master’s degree from Arkansas State University.

He was the owner of Reese Roofing and Sheet Metal, Co. and theCity News magazine.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Beth Dame Reese, his children: Erin (Dennis) Hornsby, Katie (Desi) Lee, John (Jenny) Reese; his grandchildren, Cade and Miller Hornsby, Chyler and Max Lee, Alyssa, Kane, and Connor Reese.

He is survived by his brother, Steve, and sisters, Janey, Retha, Joan, Sue, Lue, and Fran.

Reese was preceded in death by his brothers, Ted, Ben, and Frank and sisters, Lola, Tressie, Genny, Tommie, and Peggy.

Reese lived life wide open at all times. Those who knew and loved him best would characterize him as “an absolute wild man,” and frankly, were all stunned to see him make it to 79. From multiple car accidents to a love of motorcycles to serving two tours in Vietnam, he somehow survived to meet his wife Beth and have three truly spectacular children.

Reese was never afraid to take risks. After earning a master’s degree in education, his natural next step was to open a roofing company. The company started small with residential roofs and became more and more successful as he ventured into mostly commercial roofing. In true Reese fashion and driven by his long time dream to become a journalist, Reese bought a newspaper, theCIty News in July of 1996.

Never scared to make some noise, Reese also had a lifelong love of music. He played the guitar, wrote songs, and could sometimes be found center stage at the famous Bluebird Cafe in Nashville.

After retirement, Reese discovered a love of golf, spent time with his kids and grandchildren, drove cross country on a motorcycle, began woodworking, and finished writing his memoir, “Don’t Throw Water on a Gasoline Fire,” which was published in October 2024.

Reese was one of a kind, and there damn sure won’t be another one.

Reese’s life will be celebrated on Saturday, February 22nd at First Baptist Church Bemis. Visitation will be from 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. with the service immediately following.

The family would like to thank caregivers Treesey Cannon of Touching Hearts and Megan and Jasmine of Tennessee Quality Care.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be directed to Samaritan’s Purse or First Baptist Church Bemis.