Donald Ray Reese

Donald Ray Reese was born April 12, 1930 in Walters, Oklahoma to James Alfred Reese and Annie Beatrice (Blair) Reese. He passed from this life on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at the age of 95 at home in Wichita Falls, TX. Don grew up primarily in southern Oklahoma, and graduated from Ahpeatone High School near Lawton. He played basketball in high school, and for one year at Cameron College. He then enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served in the Korean War. After his service to his country, he returned and married Billie Sue Davis on July 3, 1952 in Ringling, Oklahoma. He earned his bachelors degree in education at East Central Oklahoma University, and taught in California public schools for 2 years. He then worked in civil service for 26 years in Utah, Oklahoma, and Arizona before retiring.

Don was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and served in several capacities in the church, including as bishop of the Duncan, Oklahoma ward. His family always came first, but he also enjoyed history, politics, and BYU and OU sports.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and three brothers, James, William, and Jackie.

He is survived by his younger brother, Keith Reese (Regina); his children, James Donald Reese (Linda) and Susan Rae Reese Stroud (Bryan); 11 grandchildren, James Reese, Sariah O'Dwyer, Melissa Ladner, Jacob Reese, Bryan Stroud, Jr., Lindsey Harper, Melinda Barson, David Stroud, Amanda Holden, Jennifer McLerran, and Collin Stroud; and 33 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 11:00AM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (4325 York Street, Wichita Falls). Visitation will be prior to the service at 10:00AM.