Reginald Marcellous Gustus

Reginald Marcellous Gustus born July 16, 1949, to Catherine Gustus in New Bern, North Carolina passed away January 8, 2025, in Lake Forest, California at the age of 75. He was hospitalized due to pneumonia and discharged to a skilled nursing facility after 3 weeks of treatment to build his strength and come home. He made great strides to recover and regain strength however his lungs could not recover leading to cardiopulmonary arrest.
Reggie was an honest hardworking man, devoted father and grandfather. He spent his adolescence in North Carolina with his brothers Junius Gustus (decd. 2017) and Elijah Gustus. He worked in tobacco fields in his youth and went into the United States Marine Corp in 1969 and fought in the Vietnam war. After being honorably discharged he visited his cousins in California where he would spend nearly 50 years working and raising his family in Rancho Santa Margarita. He spent his time fishing, talking to his friends and family on the East coast and playing with his grandchildren during his retirement.
Reggie is survived by his spouse of 38 years-Christi Gustus, Brother- Elijah Gustus, Sons- Barry Wright (55) & Anthoni Gustus (39), Daughters- Brooklynn Matsushima (35) & Kymberly Gustus (33) Granddaughters- Delilah Witt (14) & Charlie Matsushima (12), and Grandsons- Reginald Witt (4), Denver Matsushima (4), & Desmond Gustus (2). Daughter-in-law- Maggie Mcduffee (35). Son-in-laws- Shosaku Matsushima (41) & David Witt (39).
Reggie made an impression on every person he met. He overcame much adversity throughout his life and was grateful for all the opportunities that came his way. He was a father figure to many, an expressive friend who gave his opinion wanted or not. He was a man with a kind heart who would give his last penny to someone in need. He will be greatly missed by the community around him, his family and friends. We know that when you think of Reggie laughter abounds.