Thomas E. Reece, Sr., age 86, peacefully transitioned to his heavenly home on Monday, April 12 , 2021 in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

Thomas was born in Biloxi, Mississippi on April 19 , 1934 and grew up on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

He was a proud veteran, serving in 3 branches of the service.  While in the US Marine Corp, he participated in action against enemy forces in South and Central Korea in July 1953 and he participated in the defense of UN positions in Korea from July 1953 to September 1954 . He also served in the US Air Force, US Army and Army National Guards.  Thomas was also a proud American and was an avid supporter of the troops and law enforcement.  He was a dedicated hard worker, and retired from the Mississippi Department of Transportation after over 20 years employment where he was a mechanic.

He loved fishing, hunting, camping, traveling and attending gospel singings. He especially looked forward to & enjoyed his Tuesday pool shooting days with his daughter, Wanda, and the guys at the Newton  County Senior Center.  He attended Yardelle Chapel.  He and his wife (along with their animals) moved to Newton County in 2006 after Hurricane Katrina.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Everett "Doot" Reece and Rosella "Buck" Hill;  his wife of 64 years, Leler "Rita" Reece; a son, Thomas E. "Rusty" Reece, Jr. and close family friend, Don Miller.

Thomas is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law, Wanda and Tommy Graham of Western Grove, AR and Colleen and Steve Rawlings of Biloxi, MS; his sister, Barbara Banks of Biloxi, MS; his close friend, R.C. Horn of Western Grove and a host of family and friends in Mississippi and many friends in Arkansas who have become family.

At his request, private graveside services were held at Sand Hill Cemetery in Yardelle, Arkansas with Derwin Martin Officiating.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Sand Hill Cemetery Fund, HC 32 Box 167, Hasty, AR, 72640.

Arrangements under the direction of Coffman Funeral Home of Harrison.  On-line condolences may be left at www.coffmanfh.com .