Photo courtesy of Smith, Bizzell & Warner Funeral Home
Gary, Indiana
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William Reese, Jr., 62, of Merrillville, IN entered into eternity on Wednesday, April 17, 2013. William was a former resident of Gary, IN, graduate of Roosevelt High School Class of 1968, Ball State University Ed. S. and Doctorate Candidate at Nova University. He was a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. He was a retired educator and administrator of the Gary Community School Corporation. During his 35 year tenure as a dedicated administrator, he made a positive impact on the lives of many students at Froebel, Edison, Pulaski, Lew Wallace, Roosevelt and Tolleston schools. Preceding him in death were his parents, William Sr. and Reesie Parker Reese. Celebrating the gift of his life forever are his wife, Benetta Hartfield Reese; daughter, Whitney Kayla Reese; brother, Larry (Cheryl) Reese; sisters, Mary Ann (Roosevelt) Evans and Patricia Reese. He also leaves brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and extended family members; dear friends Henry Johnson, Dr. Wayne Rogers and God-daughter, Dr. Inez Wright of Las Vegas, NV. Visitation Wednesday, April 24, 2013 from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. (family hour 4 p.m. until 7 p.m.); Omega Rites, 6:30 p.m. at Smith, Bizzell and Warner Funeral Home, 4209 Grant Street, Gary, IN. Homegoing Celebration Thursday, April 25, 2013 at 11 a.m.; Embassies of Christ Church, 4285 Cleveland Street, Gary, IN Dr. Cedric Oliver officiating. Interment Evergreen Memorial Park.
It´s 2023 now, but I´m taking this to thank God for allowing our paths to cross. To God be the Glory!!!
Ernest Battle
May 16, 2023 | Friend
Bill was the best and funniest roommate I had during my 4 years at Ball State. I'll never forget coming into our room to the music of Aretha Franklin blasting and Bill on his bed kicking his feet in the air and screaming "Aretha, Aretha." I regret we lost touch but I had no doubt he would leave his mark on the world. Rest in His arms my friend.
Charlie Russell
May 16, 2023 | School
Mr. Reese or as we affectionately called him, "Daddy Reese" was such a loving, caring and kind man. He went above and beyond just being an administrator. Daddy Reese helped youths that didn't have a loving home dynamics. Thank you for all that you did - you made me feel appreciated. My prayers to his family and friends RIH
Bea
May 16, 2022
Charlie Russell at BSU about 1969
Sadly, I just learned of Bill's passing yesterday. Bill was my roommate at Ball State my sophomore and junior years. I still have many funny memories of our time. After thinking about Bill so much over the years, I finally sent Bill a letter last year but did not get a reply. I wish I had not taken so long to reach out. I had news that I know he would have rejoiced over. My and Marcia's prayers of support to Bill's loved ones.
Charlie Russell
January 12, 2014 | Indianapolis, IN
I just found out yesterday of "Daddy Reese" passing. I had the honor of being called one of his high school daughters. His door was always open and cared about his kids and wanted all to achieve success both in and out of school. He was a shining example on how to care for one another. He will be truly missed. It was a pleasure to have known you. GOD BLESS
Bennye Bullock
May 20, 2013 | Gary, IN
Ken and Cynth'ya Reed
We are so very glad to know that the flowers we sent in our absence were a blessing to the family, in honor of my husband's fraternity brother Bill. Bill was one of the FIRST people I was introduced to when my husband, Mr. Kenneth "Prince" Reed gave me his Omega Psi Phi Fraternity pin in 1974. To know that Bill, my husband Kenny, Donnie Moore, Roger Ruth & Michael Chisley (Mike did get a chance to attend the homegoing) were as close as real brothers was very special. I'm honored to be married...
Kenneth & Cynth'ya Reed
May 17, 2013 | Muncie, IN
Reese Family,
May you find some comfort in knowing that my prayers are with you. William and I shared a lot of classes together at Roosevelt High School and from time to time when I came home to Gary we would run into each other, he was always the same, pleasant and upbeat.I am so sorry to hear of his passing.
Sterling Lenoir,Jr
May 08, 2013 | Seattle, WA
Reese Family,
May God guide you and comfort you during your time of sorrow. Mr. Reese has helped to shape the lives of many of his students.
He will be missed.
Preston Lewis
April 26, 2013 | Lockport, IL
Sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Reese he was a great teacher and he cared about his student. May the Lord Bless and keep his family in this hour.
April 26, 2013