Nov. 27, 1934 - April 17, 2026
Carl L. Reese, 91, of Macon, GA, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2026, just one month after the death of his beloved wife, Betty Reese. Carl will be remembered as a devoted husband, proud father and grandfather, and faithful servant of his church. He will be deeply missed.
Born on Nov. 27, 1934, in Adrian, Georgia, Carl was the son of the late Charlie Robert Reese and Mary Reese Dowd. After high school, he joined the United States Air Force in 1954 and served honorably until his discharge in 1959.
In December 1958, Carl met the love of his life, Betty, at his brother’s wedding. They married in March 1960 and enjoyed 66 wonderful years together. Carl worked for 30 years at Robins Air Force Base, retiring in 1989. Known for his skill and dedication, he was also a talented carpenter in his spare time, building three houses over the years. A true perfectionist, he often reminded others with his favorite saying: “Measure twice, cut once”—a philosophy that guided not only his craftsmanship but also his thoughtful approach to life and conversation.
A longtime member of Pitts Chapel United Methodist Church, Carl faithfully served on many boards and committees and represented the church as its conference delegate until 2025. He was also an active member of Centerville United Methodist Church for over 20 years where he led mission trips and served the church in many capacities.
Carl is survived by his son, Craig Reese and his wife Susan of Roswell, GA; his granddaughter, Madeline of New York, NY; and his grandsons, Colin of Roswell, Georgia, and Adam of Bradenton, Florida. He is also survived by his brother, Charles Reese of Macon, and his sister, Annalene McNeal of Macon. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his brother, Leroy Reese, and his sisters, Elizabeth Bennett and Robbie Sumner.
Carl took special joy in his family, building a cradle for his granddaughter, teaching his grandsons to fish and introducing them to the world of tools by frequently gifting tool sets.
A celebration of Carl’s life was held at Gray Memorial Chapel in Gray, GA on Monday, April 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. with a visitation for family and friends one hour prior to the service at Gray Memorial Chapel, 4378 Gray Highway, Gray, GA. The Rev. Keith Goodlett officiated. Interment followed at Parkway Memorial Gardens, 720 Carl Vinson Parkway, Warner Robins, GA.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Pitts Chapel United Methodist Church or a charity of one’s choice in Carl’s memory.
