Mr. Ray Reese

Ray Anthony Reese, 67, of Albany, Georgia, entered eternal rest on April 1, 2026. He was born on July 24, 1958, to the late Robert Reese, Sr. and the late Beatrice Barnes Reese.

At an early age, Ray accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior and was baptized at First Bethesda Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend J. Allen Grier. During his time there, he was an active member of the Youth Department and sang in the Junior Choir,

Ray was educated in the Dougherty County School System and was a 1976 graduate of Monroe Comprehensive High School. After graduation, he tried his hand at farming. Although he explored other jobs and occupations over the years, his heart eventually led him back to farming-a passion he truly enjoyed, especially driving tractors. Ray Pierce, Manager of Nonami Plantation where he was employed for many years, said he has never met anyone who loves driving atractor more than Ray.

Ray was known for his wisdom and practical outlook on life, often sharing his favorite saying: “Work smart, not hard.” He also had a warm and uplifting spirit, always carrying a sense of humor-even throughout his illness-which brought comfort and smiles to those around him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Reese, Sr. and Beatrice Barnes Reese, five sisters, Martha Reese, Dorothy Hunigan, Mary Duhart, Delorise Holiday, and Lucile Reese; three brothers, Robert Reese, Jr., Andrew Reese, and Elijah Reese.

He leaves to cherish his memory one son, Dr. Ray Northern of Brooklyn, New York; one daughter, Katrina Northern of Leesburg, Georgia; two granddaughters, Taliyah Sherman, Valdosta, Georgia and Alaila Hall, Leesburg, Georgia; his surviving siblings, Fannie Bell, David (Juanita) Reese, Sr., Jim Reese, Charlie (Barbara) Reese, Jacqueline Reese, Yvonne Reese, Alma (Larry) Blakely, and Mildred Faison; one aunt, Macy Owens; a dear friend and mother of his children, Deborah Northern; one bonus daughter, Rachael (Anthony) Hoskins; two brothers-in-law, Eule Duhart, Sr. and George Holiday; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Ray’s life was a reflection of faith, resilience, laughter, and love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew him. May he rest in eternal peace.