James Reese

James M. Reese

Blythe, GA  – James Merritt Reese, 88, entered into rest Sunday night, March 15, 2015at University Hospital. A Celebration of Life service will be held at Faith Baptist Church at 5:30PM Wednesday, March 18, 2015 with Rev. Albert Halford officiating. A private committal service will be held at a later date at Bethel United Methodist Church Cemetery in Gibson, GA.

One of eight children born to the late Janey Hardin Reese and the late Chandler Chance Reese, James was born and raised in Jefferson County.  Having to drop out of school in the second grade, he worked with local farmers tending their crops and later working on the road crew for Jefferson County. His favorite job was farming—he loved working the land and gardening.  HIs vegetable and flower gardens were the envy of everyone.  He also loved his canine friends and his cat. He accepted and knew Jesus as his Savior and attended Faith Baptist Church. Lovingly known as "Pops", he found great pleasure in seeing his friends as he sat in his corner at Mac's Store--the store. This simple, quiet, unassuming man was a loyal friend and “buddy”—a generous, good-hearted man who helped others in any way he could.  His might have been a simple life but was also one of great character and honor.  James will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

James was also preceded in death by all of his siblings, Mae Wheeler, Myrtice Farr, Tom Reese, Willie Reese, Judson Reese, Talmadege Reese and David Reese; his granddaughter, Maressa Johnson; and his great grandson, Steven Johnson. Survivors include his son James F. Reese (Rose Marie) of Olathe, KS; grandson, James F. Reese II; two great grandchildren, Cody Johnson and Heather Jo Johnson; his guardian and buddy, James M. Rose; several nieces, nephews and many friends.

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I'm Free

Don't grieve for me, for now I'm free
I'm following the path God laid for me.
I took His hand when I heard him call;
I turned my back and left it all.
I could not stay another day,
To laugh, to love, to work or play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way;
I found that place at the close of the day.
If my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joy.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss;
Ah yes, these things, I too will miss.
Be not burdened with times of sorrow
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life's been full, I savored much;
Good friends, good times, a loved ones touch.
Perhaps my time seems all too brief;
Don't lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your heart and share with me,
God wanted me now, He set me free.

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