Reese Funeral Professionals Obituaries

Introducing Reese Funeral Professionals: A Legacy of Compassionate Care

Located in the heart of Alexandria, Virginia, Reese Funeral Professionals has been a pillar of strength for families navigating the most difficult times. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, this esteemed funeral home has earned a reputation for providing exceptional service, compassion, and support to those who need it most.

A History of Trust and Tradition

Reese Funeral Professionals has been serving the Alexandria community for generations, building a legacy of trust and tradition that is unparalleled in the region. Founded on a foundation of integrity, respect, and dedication, this family-owned funeral home has consistently demonstrated its ability to adapt to the changing needs of the community while remaining true to its core values.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Harry T. Charity - September 07, 1965 - May 12, 2024

Departed: 05/12/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Washington, DC Resided In: Alexandria, VA Interment: Private

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Vermelle C. Middleton - January 16, 1925 - May 05, 2024

Departed: 05/05/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Washington, DC Resided In: Washington, DC

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Johnny W. Gallmon, Sr. - September 28, 1938 - May 03, 2024

Departed: 05/03/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Prosperity, SC Resided In: Capitol Heights, MD Internment: Private

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Pauline Hobbs - December 12, 1956 - May 01, 2024

Departed: 05/01/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Washington, DC Resided In: Waldorf, MD

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Quinton L. Tabron - June 12, 1958 - May 01, 2024

Departed: 05/01/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Washington, DC Resided In: Washington, DC

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Diana L. Murray - September 02, 1944 - April 30, 2024

Departed: 04/30/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Alexandria, VA Resided In: Lorton, VA

Diana Lowrell Murray entered into God's eternal resting place on Tuesday April 30, 2024 at Inova Fairfax Hospital in Annandale, VA.

Diana was born September 2, 1944 in Alexandria, VA to the late Charles and Edmonia Wanzer. Diana was raised and attended school in Alexandria, VA. Diana worked for Fairfax County public schools for 10 years as a custodian to retire from Giant Food of 30 years as a Deli Clerk.

Diana loved to spend time with family and friends and loved playing her lottery numbers. You could always count on her, and you knew she always had your back.

Diana was preceded in death by her father Charles Wanzer, mom Edmonia Wanzer, brothers Charles Wanzer SR, Albert Wanzer, William Wanzer and son Norman Murray.

Diana leaves to cherish her memory her 2 sons Eric Murray Sr (Valerie) and Devin Murray Sr (Philathea), 4 Grandchildren Shaquana, Eric Jr, Devin Jr and Norman, 3 Great Grandchildren Skye, Tavon and Izaiah, 1 brother Claude Wanzer, 1 sister Tanya Wanzer, devoted friend Sharon Moten along with a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives.

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Lawrence Q. Robinson - September 01, 1972 - April 28, 2024

Departed: 04/28/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Washington, DC Resided In: Camp Springs, MD Interment: Private

Lawrence Quinton Robinson, of Camp Springs, Maryland passed away peacefully on Sunday April 28,2024. He leaves to cherish his memory, a loving and devoted Wife, Natina L. Robinson; loving Mother Ruby Robinson-Carter of Temple Hills, MD; Two Sisters Vicky Robinson of Washington, DC and LaTosca Robinson of Temple Hills, MD; A devoted Uncle Michael Clark of Oxon Hill, MD and a host of Nieces, Nephews and dear Friends. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at the Reese Funeral Home, 311 North

Patrick Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. Viewing: 10:00am ; Funeral Services: 11:00am.

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Che` N. Lyon - July 08, 1956 - April 25, 2024

Departed: 04/25/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Washington, DC Resided In: Alexandria, VA Live Stream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N_L5aDyzhNQ Interment: Private

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John A. Cannady, Sr. - September 17, 1936 - April 20, 2024

Departed: 04/20/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Washington, DC Resided In: Alexandria

Service information will be forthcoming.

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Bernette V. Gilbert - February 15, 1953 - April 18, 2024

Departed: 04/18/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Alexandria, VA Resided In: Stafford, VA

Bernette Verdella Gilbert affectionately known to many as "Tiny" was born February 15, 1953, to the Othernile and Beatrice Gilbert. She received her formal education from the Alexandria City Public School Systems (ACPS) and later went on to work as a public servant for ACPS, where she retired.

After retirement, she worked at Bowl America as a Head Cook and later at New Hope Housing, Incorporated as an Executive Chef. She received accolades for Employee of the Quarter, Appreciation for Excellence in Meal Preparation, and most notably certifications in "Out Of Poverty' and "Putting People First".

Bernette had a personal relationship with God, and was a sweet, humble, kind hearted person who loved her family and friends dearly. She loved all genres of music, taking care of her grandchildren, pet sitting, spending time with family, friends, cooking, dancing, singing, playing cards and had a passion for fishing and sports. Her vibrant personality would light up a room and her infectious laughter lifted many spirits.

She took care of and had a hand in raising everyone's children and was the go to babysitter, no matter the relationship. Her compassion and love for people touched many lives. Every time you saw her, you heard music. Sweet music resonating in the atmosphere.

Bernette V. Gilbert is preceded in death by her parents, Othernile and Beatrice Gilbert, her sons, Hardy and Larry Gilbert; her daughter, Angel Gilbert; her sister, Hazelteen Ledbetter; nephews, Joseph and Tracy Ledbetter, and Kevin Winston, and her nieces, Katrinka Winston and Taty ana Cooks.

Her gentle quiet spirit, legacy of love, and devotion to her family, will remain in the hearts and minds of those left to cherish her memory.

Bernette entered into eternal life on Thursday, April 18, 2024, into the hands of our Almighty God Bernette V. Gilbert is survived by her grandchildren, Celina, Briana, and Amiyah Gilbert; her siblings, Ann Washington, Othernile Gilbert, Beatrice McKinney and William Gilbert (JaNeice); nieces, Dana Jackson, Shonda Palmer (Lawrence), Maria Ledbetter, Latanya Bailey, (Richard), Shilitta Hughes, Donisha Freeman, Key'Nita Harris (Justin), Jasmine Duvall (Aaron), Keondra Winston, Renca McKinney, Shana Jackson, Ebony Ledbetter (Derek), Jocelyn Duvall (Joshua), Jetavia Hughes, and India Cooks; nephews, SaQuan Ir-Rahman (Sharone), Jalon and Jaron Ledbetter, Tayron Bailey (Remee), Maurice and Juwan Cotton, Joseph Ledbetter (Chloe), Rashaud Bailey, Michael Ledbetter, Joshua and Jonathan Ledbetter, and Gianni Ir-Rahman; and her longtime companion, Virginia Walker; her bonus sons, Roman Walker (Venus), and Chesman Walker (Tasha); her bonus grandchildren, Aric Walker and Antonio Jackson, and a host of family and friends. We cherish and miss her dearly. We can find comfort in knowing, to be absent from the body is to be present with God. Her love and the precious memories we've shared, will remain forever in our hearts. She is now at peace, resting in the Master's arms, surrounded by the heavenly hosts. Let us continue to spread the love of God as we carry out the life God has predestined for us, until we meet again!

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Jean V. Banner - November 02, 1952 - April 13, 2024

Departed: 04/13/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Washington, DC Resided In: Washington, DC

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Delilah Henry - May 04, 1939 - April 11, 2024

Departed: 04/11/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birthdate Place: Sprague, WV Resided In: Washington, DC

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Ronny A. Williams - December 16, 1966 - April 10, 2024

Departed: 04/10/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Washington, DC Resided In: Washington, DC Interment: Private

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Catherine A. Chandler - February 23, 1941 - April 10, 2024

Departed: 04/10/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Washington, DC Resided In: District Heights, MD

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Alex D. Johnson - September 27, 1969 - April 07, 2024

Departed: 04/07/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Washington, DC Resided In: Washington, DC Interment: Private

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Vickie L. Austin - January 31, 1964 - April 05, 2024

Departed: 04/05/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Elizabethtown, NC Resided In: Alexandria, VA

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Saquon K. Bethea - November 08, 1979 - April 02, 2024

Departed: 04/02/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Washington, DC Resided In: Temple Hills, MD Interment: Private

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Porscha T. Brown - January 31, 1990 - March 30, 2024

Departed: 03/30/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Silver Spring, MD Resided In: District Heights, MD Live Stream: Maple Springs Live Stream of Porscha Brown Homegoing Service

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Connie B. Mickens - September 12, 1949 - March 28, 2024

Departed: 03/28/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Bishopville, SC Resided In: Capitol Heights, MD Interment: Private

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Alfred L. Lewis, Sr. - September 05, 1946 - March 25, 2024

Departed: 03/25/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: South Boston, VA Resided In: Alexandria, VA

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Ralph J. Stephens - February 05, 1963 - March 23, 2024

Departed: 03/23/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Alexandria, VA Resided In: Richmond, VA

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Phyllis Hyman Brookins - September 20, 1951 - March 22, 2024

Departed: 03/22/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Suffolk, VA Resided In: Ft Washington, MD Live Stream: live.ebenezer.org Interment: Private

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Taty'ana Zakiyyah Cooks - March 26, 1993 - March 22, 2024

Departed: 03/22/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Place of Birth: Alexandria, Virginia Resided In: Woodbridge, Virginia Live Streaming:  www.tpcbc.org  Facebook/Youtube Taty’ana Story Taty’ana’s Life Full of Love and Laughter

Taty'ana “Taty” Zakiyyah Cooks was born to Myra Cooks and Saquan Ir-Rahman in Alexandria, VA . She received her formal education in the Alexandria City Public School System. After graduating from T. C. Williams High School, Taty went onto study Healthcare Administration at Northern Virginia Community College and Park University.

She was truly the life of the party, always bringing a smile to everyone’s face with her infectious laughter and vibrant personality. Her love for her only son, Beau, knew no bounds, and she cherished every moment spent with him. She dedicated herself wholeheartedly to nurturing and supporting Beau, ensuring that he always felt loved and cared for. Taty A Pillar of Strength for Family and Friends

Not only was Taty a devoted mother, but she also excelled at propping up members of her friends and family. She had a remarkable ability to support others through their passions and difficulties, offering an open heart and a listening ear to anyone in need. Her unwavering support and encouragement were instrumental in helping those around her navigate life’s challenges. Taty’s Mission to Improve Lives

Taty made it her mission to not only improve her own life but also uplift the lives of those around her. She accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord at an early age and was dedicated to serving God. Whether it was through acts of kindness, words of wisdom, or simply being there for someone in their time of need, she touched countless hearts with her generosity and compassion. Her legacy of selflessness and empathy will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. Taty’s Heavenly View: If You Could See Me Now

On March 22, 2024, Taty was tragically taken from us far too soon. However, God’s, will we accept and Taty is now walking streets of gold.

She was the epitome of love, kindness, and joy, and now we all have an angel that will watch over us. She is survived by her son, Beau; her mother, Myra Cooks; her father, Saquan Ir-Rahman (Sharone); her sisters, India and Nichelle Cooks; her brother, Gianni Ir-Rahman, her grandmother, Ann Washington; her uncles, Robert Quick, Christopher Quick, Robert McIntosh (Havy), Othernile Gilbert, Bernard Gilbert (JaNeice), her aunts, Cassandra Cooks, Anise Cooks-Collins (John), Bernice Caliver, Wanda Robinson, Beatrice McKinney, Bernette Gilbert, Dana Jackson, Shonda Palmer (Lawrence), Maria Ledbetter; her sister and brother group, Justine Green ,Jennifer Maravilla, Alyssa Howard, Kerry Howard, Jr., Layla Brown; her god parents, Charonda Brown and Dee Brown and a host of other family, friends, and co-workers.

In honoring the memory of Taty let us carry forward the light she brought into our lives by spreading love, kindness, and compassion wherever we go. Though she may may no longer be with us in body, her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were touched by her grace. Rest in peace, dear Taty'ana “Taty” Cooks. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten

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Thomas W. Hairston - October 24, 1951 - March 21, 2024

Departed: 03/21/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Martinsville, VA Resided In: Washington, DC Interment: Private

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Sandra E. Williams - December 03, 1941 - March 20, 2024

Departed: 03/20/2024 (Alexandria)

Obituary Preview: Birth Place: Nashville, TN Resided In: Clifton, VA Interment: Will be scheduled for later date Live Stream: https://us02web.zoom.us/

Sandra Elizabeth McHaney-Williams gently passed away at the age of 82 after a courageous battle with cancer. Wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she softly drifted away in the early morning of March 20, 2024, surrounded by those whom she loved most.

Her life began on December 3, 1941, in her parental home on Jo Johnston Avenue, Nashville, Tennessee, to the late Purley McHaney and Lessie Taylor-McHaney. Sandra’s love of family was formulated by her parent’s staunch emphasis on family and love. Throughout her life, she reminisced on how much laughter and affection she shared with her many brothers and sisters.

Her mother, Lessie Elizabeth Taylor-Mchaney, one of the first African American teachers in Henderson County Tennessee, ingrained into each of her children a rich love of learning and a strong faith in Jesus Christ. As a child, she could often be found with book in hand as she curiously browsed through the pages dreaming of adventures in foreign lands. She loved going to church as much as she loved learning new things.

Growing up, she was extremely proud of her father, a staunch man with a proud stature, who served in World War II in the Black Army Corp. He was her hero, a fierce protector, a man who exemplified manhood at its highest levels. As a self-proclaimed Daddy’s girl, she often spoke of how they spent quality time together by watching “picture shows”. In her last days, she often spoke of how much love and adoration she had for “Daddy”. As a teen, she set her mark on becoming an opera singer like Maria Anderson. In preparation she and her best friends decided to hone their singing skills and formulate their own all girl teen group, the Estrellitas. Although the trio focused more on pop, her love for the beauty of operatic singing never died.

She attended Pearl High School and Tennessee State University (TSU), both historical Black institutions, of which she was tremendously proud. While at TSU she participated on the cheerleading squad and pledged with the Divine Nine sorority, Sigma Gamma Rho. She was always surrounded by family. One evening while sitting in her oldest sister’s restaurant, the Bright Light, a young alluring Army soldier with a tempting accent, Eldred Williams, sat right next to her. To her he was as fascinating as he was mysterious. She didn’t know it then, but he would become the love of her life, her gentle partner, her best friend, the man whom she adored. After a world wind romance, they soon married and decided to raise their children in his homeland St. Thomas US Virgin Islands.

Sandra was as courageous as she was fashionable, adventurous, quiet, and matter of fact. In a sense, like her mother, she was a trailblazer and pushed limits. As a young professional she was heralded as a dynamic educator at Abraham Lincoln Elementary School, Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas, USVI, by both staff and students. She was wise beyond her years and had the gift of discernment and foresight. She led her life in honesty and unconditional forgiveness, guided by the principles of Jesus Christ.

Her life was devoted to only two things, her husband “Elly” and her children. Her greatest accolade was seeing her children well-balanced, healthy, and prosperous and her husband secure and happy. Her husband gave her the gift of the world and she gave it back in kind to him with unconditional love and support. Exploring the world was one of her greatest pleasures. And, as a family they went on to live in Europe, Japan, and various other places around the globe. She loved exploration. She often said it gave her a sense of delight and adventure.

After retiring from the Department of Defense with over thirty years of faithful service, Sandra and Eldred mutually decided to retire and cruise the Caribbean. They enjoyed those days, but Sandra grew bored and wanted to explore the shopping option further. Her simplest pleasures in life were shopping for fine jewelry, clothing, furniture, and basically anything. Because of her husband’s desire to please his wife, he would often bite his lip and give her his check book. He stood on the premise, “Happy wife. Happy life.” Her witty personality as the “Queen”, in whom she took great delight, was contagious to everyone she met. She was as beautiful as she was endearing and believed in a past life that she was a crowned queen.

Preceded in death by parents, father Purley Dean McHaney Sr. (late) and Mother Lessie Elizabeth Taylor- Mchaney (late); grandchildren, Indiya Elizabeth Williams (late), Veronica Shae Williams (late), sisters, Bettie Mae McHaney-Beard (late), Doris Mecca McHaney-Beard (late), Addie McHaney (late), Jacqueline McHaney-Driver (late); brothers, Purley Dean McHaney, Jr. (late), Taylor McHaney (late), Samuel McHaney (late), Robert McHaney (late); sisters-in-law Ermanie (Paz) Harrigan (late), Janet Thomas (late); brothers in law, Kenneth Thomas, (late) Raymond Thomas (late); nephews Coleman (Barbara) Beard (late), Cornelius Beard (late), Kenneth Vice (late), Morris Harrigan (late); great nephew Adrian Beard (late). Sandra is survived by her husband, Eldred Alexander Williams; her son, Noel (Michelle) Flenoy Williams; her daughter Cecily Anasia Williams-Dobbs-Austin; grandchildren, Nia Eldra-Sedoya Dobbs, Naomi Jasmine-Janae Dobbs-Malonga, Niles Stanley Dobbs; great grandchild Zion Iman Malonga; sister, Francis Jean McHaney-Kenner-Reeds; sisters-in-law Edith Harrigan, Erna Harrigan, Genevieve Harrigan-Donovan, Jocelyn Harrigan, Cecilie Harrigan, Marilyn Thomas; brother in law, Earl Harrigan; her beloved niece and friend, Betty Coleman Braden-Terry; nieces, Tracy Braden-King, Tina McHaney, Cynthia Williams, Monique (Jose) Harrigan-Santos, Nicole (Gabriel) Harrigan-Knowlton: nephews, Klem Kenner, Joseph Driver, Kelby Driver, Joel (Beatrice) Gumbs; great nieces Lashaunda Braden, Stacey (Byron) Braden-Turner, Joselyn Hall, Aundrea Beard, Amie Beard-Corder, Kia Kenner, Portia (Charles) Harrigan, Chloe Williams, Alicia (Harrigan) Sutton, Briel Knowlton, Zian Santos, Rachel Santos; great nephews,

Arian Beard, Christopher Kenner, Brock Williams, Cole (Bethany) Knowlton, Brent Donovan, Elroy Donovan, Joseph Santos and many others. During her last days she emphasized to her family that the only true love is God. When asked how she wanted to be remembered, she would quote the following lyrics: “And now, the end is near And so I face the final curtain My friend, I'll say it clear I'll state my case, of which I'm certain I've lived a life that's full I traveled each and every highway And more, much more than this I did it my way Regrets, I've had a few But then again, too few to mention I did what I had to do And saw it through without exemption I planned each charted course Each careful step along the byway And more, much more than this I did it my way Yes, there were times, I'm sure you knew When I bit off more than I could chew But through it all, when there was doubt I ate it up and spit it out I faced it all, and I stood tall And did it my way I've loved, I've laughed and cried I've had my fill, my share of losing And now, as tears subside I find it all so amusing To think I did all that And may I say, not in a shy way Oh, no, oh, no, not me I did it my way For what is a man, what has he got? If not himself, then he has naught To say the things he truly feels And not the words of one who kneels The record shows I took the blows And did it my way

Yes, it was my way”.

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A Team of Caring Professionals

The team at Reese Funeral Professionals is comprised of experienced, licensed funeral directors and staff who are dedicated to providing personalized care and attention to every family they serve. From the initial consultation to the final farewell, their compassionate professionals will guide you through the entire process with kindness, empathy, and understanding.

A Facility Designed for Comfort and Reflection

The funeral home's facility, located at 311 North Patrick Street, Alexandria, VA 22314, is designed to provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere that fosters comfort and reflection. With beautifully appointed chapels, visitation rooms, and reception areas, Reese Funeral Professionals offers a serene setting that honors the memory of your loved one while providing a sense of peace and tranquility for those who gather to pay their respects.

Personalized Funeral Services Tailored to Your Needs

At Reese Funeral Professionals, no two funerals are alike. Their experienced team will work closely with you to create a personalized celebration of life that reflects the unique personality, interests, and spirit of your loved one. From traditional funerals to cremation services, memorial gatherings, and special tributes, they offer a range of options designed to meet your specific needs and preferences.

Cremation Services with Dignity and Respect

For families who choose cremation, Reese Funeral Professionals offers a range of dignified and respectful options. Their state-of-the-art crematory ensures that every aspect of the cremation process is handled with care and precision, providing you with the assurance that your loved one is being treated with the utmost dignity and respect.

Pre-Planning: A Gift to Your Loved Ones

One of the most thoughtful gifts you can give your family is the gift of pre-planning. By making arrangements in advance, you can spare your loved ones from having to make difficult decisions during a time of grief. The team at Reese Funeral Professionals can guide you through the pre-planning process, helping you to make informed choices that reflect your wishes and ensure that your final farewell is both meaningful and memorable.

Community Involvement and Support

Reese Funeral Professionals is deeply committed to giving back to the community it serves. Through its involvement in local organizations, charities, and events, this funeral home demonstrates its dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of those around them. From bereavement support groups to educational seminars, they offer a range of resources designed to support individuals and families as they navigate the journey of grief.

A Commitment to Excellence in Everything They Do

In every aspect of their business, Reese Funeral Professionals strives for excellence. From the quality of their facilities to the level of care provided by their staff, this funeral home is dedicated to exceeding expectations and delivering exceptional service. Whether you're planning ahead or facing an unexpected loss, you can trust that Reese Funeral Professionals will be there to support you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their family, accomplishments, and any notable achievements.

What is the purpose of an obituary?

The primary purpose of an obituary is to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing and to provide details about their life and legacy. It also serves as a way to celebrate their life, share memories, and provide information about funeral or memorial services.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, an obituary is written by a family member or close friend of the deceased. However, it can also be written by a funeral home or a professional obituary writer. In some cases, the deceased may have written their own obituary in advance.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include information about their personality, accomplishments, and charitable organizations they supported.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or online platform. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from 100 to 500 words. Longer obituaries may be published online or in specialized publications.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, usually including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a more detailed tribute that provides a fuller picture of the person's life and legacy.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications and online platforms allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can help personalize the tribute and make it more meaningful for those who knew the deceased.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online platform?

The submission process varies depending on the publication or platform. You can usually find guidelines on their website or by contacting them directly. Be prepared to provide the written obituary, along with any photos or other requested information.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the publication or platform. Some newspapers offer free or low-cost options, while others may charge by the word or line. Online platforms may offer different pricing tiers based on features and duration.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, many people choose to write their own obituaries in advance as a way to ensure that their story is told accurately and authentically. This can also be a therapeutic exercise in reflecting on one's life and legacy.

What if I want to keep the obituary private?

If you prefer not to publicly announce the person's passing, you can opt for a private obituary that is shared only with close friends and family. Alternatively, you can choose to publish a limited version of the obituary that omits certain details.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Absolutely! While an obituary should be respectful, it's also okay to inject some humor and personality into the writing. This can help capture the essence of the person's spirit and make the tribute more engaging and memorable.

How do I handle errors or corrections in an obituary?

If you notice an error or inaccuracy in an already-published obituary, contact the publication or platform immediately. They will work with you to correct the mistake and republish the revised version.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes, quotes, lyrics, or poems can add depth and meaning to an obituary. Choose something that resonates with the person's values, interests, or personality to make the tribute more personal and impactful.

What if I want to include a charity or memorial fund in the obituary?

This is a thoughtful way to honor the person's memory and support a cause they cared about. Include the charity's name and address or website information so that others can contribute if they wish.

Can I write an obituary for someone who was not famous or well-known?

Absolutely! An obituary is a celebration of anyone's life, regardless of their public profile. It's a way to acknowledge their existence, share their story, and preserve their memory for generations to come.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The timeframe varies depending on the publication or platform. Some may publish within hours or days of submission, while others may take longer due to editorial review processes or print schedules.

Can I reprint an obituary from another source?

If you want to reprint an existing obituary from another publication or platform, be sure to obtain permission from the original author or publisher first. This ensures that you're respecting copyright laws and avoiding potential legal issues.

What if I'm struggling to write an obituary?

Drafting an obituary can be a daunting task, especially during a difficult time. Consider enlisting the help of a friend, family member, or professional writer who can assist you in capturing the essence of your loved one's life.

Can I update an existing obituary after it's been published?

In some cases, yes. If new information becomes available or there are errors that need correcting, you may be able to update the existing obituary. Check with the publication or platform for their policies on revisions.

How do I preserve an online obituary over time?

If you're concerned about an online obituary being removed or archived after a certain period, consider printing out a copy for safekeeping or saving it as a PDF document. You can also create a permanent online memorial through specialized websites or platforms.

What if I want to include specific funeral or memorial service details?

You can certainly include information about funeral or memorial services in the obituary. Be sure to provide dates, times, locations, and any other relevant details so that friends and family can attend if they wish.

Can I include stories or anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Including personal stories or anecdotes can make the obituary more engaging and help bring the person's memory alive for readers. Choose stories that illustrate their personality, values, or accomplishments.

What if I'm unsure about what to say in an obituary?

Talk to friends and family members who knew the deceased well. Ask them about favorite memories, stories, or characteristics that defined their loved one. This can help spark ideas and ensure that the tribute feels authentic and heartfelt.