Bob Reece

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert “Bob” Houston Reece on October 23rd, 2024 at the age of 101. He passed away peacefully at his home. Bob was born on June 18th, 1923 in Flat Rock, KY, to Betty Strange Reece and Rufus Reece. He was a hardworking veteran known for his integrity, as well as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend. He was lovingly known as "Dee Dee" by his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Bob grew up one of 9 siblings, on a farm in his beloved Metcalfe county. He often told stories of playing outside, working on the farm, and spending time with his family. He spoke of his siblings often, and with great pride. His childhood was rich with memories, and he shared them often with those around him.

After graduating from Edmonton High School, Bob joined the military as soon as he was able. He served in the Navy during WWII on the USS Davison (DD-618), as a Petty Officer (WT2c) in the Invasion of Sicily. He was the last living WWII veteran in Metcalfe county. Bob worked as an ironworker in both Ohio and Kentucky, as well as working for the state. He was an entrepreneur and owned his own bulldozing company. He loved running large equipment, and often talked about how much he enjoyed having a part in building the roads around Metcalfe county.

He married the love of his life, Marjorie Wallace Reece after the war ended. They went on to have two children, Roberta Reece Walter and Bobby Reece who both became educators. He was a loving husband, taking care of his wife in sickness and in health, setting an incredible example for his family of what unconditional love looks like.

Bob was a member of Edmonton Methodist Church. He was known for his strong values, honesty and humble nature. He loved telling stories and enjoyed sitting and talking to people. His family and friends were very important to him, and he talked highly of the people he encountered. He enjoyed hunting all kinds of game, in particular quail; which was Marjorie’s favorite. He was an avid outdoorsman, and could build or fix anything. He was always kind, patient and gentle to those around him.

He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He always expressed gratitude for his life, commenting “I’ve lived a good, long life; and I don’t want anyone to shed a tear when I go to meet my maker!” He will live forever in our hearts and memories, encouraging us to live with the same honesty, strength, and wit he exhibited.

Bob is survived by his son Bobby Reece.    Four grandchildren.  Whitney (Tom) Johnston, April (Donald Robert) Walbert, Shaunda (Frank) Ballard and Reece (Pam) Walter.  His great grandchildren.  Holden White, Hunter Nunnally, Lexie Bruton, Kelsey Bunch, Neely Johnston, Kasen Johnston and Houston Walter.   A brother, Billy Reece.  Two sisters.    Marguerite Sullivan and Martha Mitchell.   Several nieces and nephews also survive.

Besides his parents he was preceded in death by his wife Marjorie, daughter Roberta Walter and several brothers.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 PM Monday at Butler Funeral Home in Edmonton with burial in the Edmonton Cemetery with Military Honors.    Visitation will be held Sunday from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM and after 8:00 AM Monday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made the the Edmonton Methodist Church at the funeral home or Alzheimer's Association, Louisville Chapter, P.O. Box 6568, Louisville, Kentucky  40206-0568

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