Edgar Nathan Reese Jr.

Edgar "Nathan" Reese Jr.
March 31, 1950 – December 6, 2024
The mortal life of Edgar "Nathan" Reese Jr. may have ended on December 6, 2024, but his legacy lives on through his music, his family, and the countless memories that will be cherished for years to come. Though taken by surprise with a late-stage cancer diagnosis, Nathan refused to let the disease define his final moments, choosing to be surrounded by his large family in a home filled with love and compassion.
Born on March 31, 1950, in Richmond, Indiana, Nathan was the eldest of 7 siblings – a large and lively family led by his hardworking parents, Edgar and Johnny Reese. Growing up on a farm and later in the family grocery store, Nathan learned the values of perseverance, service to others, and resilience during tough times-lessons that guided him through life's ups and downs.
Many of Nathan's paths were paved with heartache and loss, but they were always softened by the immense love he had for his children. His kids will tell you, without hesitation, that even through the many moves and the inevitable broken-down vehicles (which often seemed to come as a package deal), the toughest times became the most cherished. Whether they were living in a tent, a camper, or a hotel, Nathan had a knack for turning any place into a home and every move into an adventure-though they could have done without the frequent roadside debacles.
Nathan's hard work and dedication also shaped his professional life. Beginning as a musician-turned-carpenter, he climbed the ranks in the construction industry, ultimately becoming a key part of Essential Construction, where he left a lasting impact. For Nathan, work was never just a job; it was family, a sentiment he proudly shared with all who knew him.
Nathan's love life didn't waver either. Turns out, hotel living paid off big for him because that's where he met Amy, the love of his life. He was heading out to work; she was finishing up her night shift. One week after meeting was all it took for Nathan to know he wanted to spend forever with her. Together, they had five children, many more moves, and even more broken-down vehicles. They also created a beautiful life in English, Indiana, where they built their dream home, better known as The Blue Haven.
The Blue Haven wasn't just a home; it was a reflection of Nathan and Amy's vision of love, hospitality, and shared experiences. Built as a place where family could gather and everyone could feel welcome, it embodied their values of fun, learning, and sharing. For Nathan, it was also a testament to his passion for creating. Whether planning his next project or writing music, Nathan's hands were never idle. Music was his soul's calling, and in his later years, he returned to it with full force, writing and recording countless songs that moved hearts and set feet tapping.
And that's how we'll remember Nathan Reese: a man who lived larger than life and refused to let this world hold him down. He loved to farm, work with his hands, write lyrics on napkins, and play his guitar at rest stops during his travels. He was the kind of man who introduced his children to everyone he met and would stop to help a stranger on the side of the road. He was a devoted family man, an honest businessman, and a diehard UK Wildcats fan.
He is survived by his loving wife, Amy Reese, and their children: Alex (Kim), Zack, Caity (Manuel) Rodriguez, Josh, and Annie. He is also survived by his children from his previous marriage to Pat Tolson: Cari (Robby) Huntzinger, Nate (Kelly), Deana (Will) Barnhart, and his late daughter Ashlee, who passed away at the age of five (1986). Nathan was a cherished grandfather to Jordan (McCaul) Considine, Jacob, Riley, Jared, Mackenzie, Hanna, Ben, Stunner, Ansley, Melanie, Max, and a great-grandfather to Reese. He was a beloved brother to Glenda (David) Smith, Nick (Conda), Jay (Mark) Silver, Charley (Janice), Karen (Gary) Baker, and his late sisters Jennifer (2009) and Sonny (2023). He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and extended family, who all held a special place in his heart.
Nathan's family invites you to celebrate his life and share memories during a visitation and memorial service on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at Liberty Road Faith Fellowship.
• Visitation: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
• Memorial Service: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
• Address: 2734 Liberty Road, Lexington, KY 40509
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the following organization:
SONGSALIVE – Promoting and empowering songwriters and composers worldwide since 1997. Donate Here – www.songsalive.org/donate.html
Nathan Reese may have left this earth, but his spirit, love, and music will resonate forever.
Care Cremation and Funeral Service is honored to be entrusted with final care.