Charles Brooks Reese, Sr., a cherished family patriarch, respected veteran, and pillar of his community, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2025, at the age of 93 in Hot Springs, Ark.
Born on Aug. 27, 1931, in Nashville, Ark., Charles was a man of integrity, kindness, and indomitable spirit. Charles spent his early years in Nashville, where he was born to Brooks McCrary Reese and Charlsie Mae Sullivan Reese. He grew up alongside his three brothers, Gibby, James, and David Bunk Reese, who preceded him in death. A proud and decorated serviceman, Charles retired as a First Sergeant from the United States Army. His military career was marked by his service in the Korean Conflict, where he demonstrated bravery and dedication to his country. For his service, he was awarded the Army Occupation Medal (Japan), among other commendations. After his retirement from the military, Charles continued to serve others through his work with Arkla Gas and his volunteer efforts taking veterans to various appointments, reflecting his unwavering commitment to his fellow servicemen and women. The legacy Charles leaves behind is rich and multifaceted. He is survived by his loving family, including his children, Carol and husband David Moore, Leota and husband Larry Holcomb, and Charles, Jr. and wife Amy Reese. His grandchildren, Devan Oliver and husband Tony, Corey and wife Ann Marie Oliver, Bonnie and husband Mike Slavych, Wendy and husband Kyle Logsdon, Brooks and wife Heather Reese, Adam and wife Jennifer Acklin , Kelli and husband Andy Burden, Aaron and wife Jessica Acklin, Andrew and wife Heather Acklin, and Jeff and wife Jessica Holcomb, will cherish his memory and continue his legacy. He was also a proud great-grandfather to 26 and great-great grandfather to two, who will grow up hearing stories of their beloved ancestor’s valor and kindness. Charles’s commitment to his faith and community was evident through his numerous involvements. He was a past Sunday school leader and took joy in working with the younger generation at Barton Bible Camp. His dedication to service extended beyond his local community as he embarked on missionary work in Ukraine and Russia, spreading love and faith across the globe. A man of many talents and interests, Charles received the prestigious Order of the Arrow from the Boy Scouts, an honor that reflected his lifelong commitment to the principles of scouting and his love for mentoring youth. His passion for the outdoors was also evident in his work as a hobby farmer. Charles had a particular fondness for growing tomatoes, a simple pleasure that brought him great joy and connected him to the earth and the rhythms of nature. Charles’s life was a testament to the impact one person can have on the lives of many. His laughter, wisdom, and unwavering support will be dearly missed by the battalion of family and friends he leaves behind. His was a life well-lived, full of purpose, service, and love. The family will receive friends on Tuesday night March 11, 2025, at Nashville Funeral Home from 6-8 p.m. A graveside service with full military honors will follow on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at Restland Memorial Park Cemetery. Zach Williams will officiate.
