Mrs. Victoria (Allen) Reece

Victoria Allen Reece (affectionately known as “Vickie”) was a woman who cherished time with family and friends, creating a lifetime of precious memories filled with love, laughter, and togetherness. Our sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend from Fresno, Texas, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2025 at the age of 72.

She was born in Richmond, VA in 1953 to Virginia Mae Ampy and Willy Allen Jr., who instilled in her a love of learning and curiosity about the world that would shape her entire life. Growing up in the historic Church Hill area of Richmond as a stellar student alongside her three brothers Carlton Allen, Timothy Allen, and Eldridge Allen (who passed away in 2007), Vickie’s childhood was filled with the joy of discovery and academic excellence. She attended Kennedy High School in Richmond, VA before going on to Virginia State University, where her mathematical mind flourished, graduating in 1975 with a degree in Mathematics before beginning her professional journey at C & P Telephone Company in Richmond.

Victoria was passionate about her role in various IT positions at Houston Lighting and Power Company, eventually advancing to Management before retiring from CenterPoint Energy. Working in the technology field for decades, she was known for her analytical approach and leadership skills that helped guide her teams through the evolving world of information technology.

Everyone who knew Vickie knew how much she loved to cook and entertain, transforming every occasion into a celebration. Her kitchen was the heart of her home, where she would create elaborate meals for the huge family gatherings and parties she was always organizing, bringing together loved ones from near and far to share in her hospitality and warmth. She also had a passion for exploring new restaurants and nights out on the town, always eager to discover new flavors and experiences. Vickie’s creative spirit extended to decorating, fashion, movies, theatre, and dancing - she had an eye for beauty and style in all aspects of life.

Vickie will always be remembered for her generous spirit and the way that she always opened her home and heart to others. She was always ‘dressed to the nines’, reflecting her impeccable sense of style and attention to detail. A talented poet and songwriter, expressing her creativity through words and melodies, Vickie’s love for travel also took her to copious destinations around the world such as London, San Francisco, tropical islands, and Paris (her absolute favorite). She took great joy in watching her talented grandchildren in their activities, especially cheering on Zamari in basketball and Alessandra in dance. We couldn’t have asked for a better mother, wife, and grandmother, and will miss Vickie every day. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all those who loved her.

Victoria is survived by her beloved husband James Henry Reece; her daughter Serrita Rubino and son-in-law Alan Rubino, and granddaughter Alessandra Rubino; her daughter Amber Smith and son-in-law Lance Smith, and grandchildren Brandon Smith, Landon Smith, and Layla Smith; her son Zachary Reece and grandchildren DaJavion Earl, Zamari Reece, Zayla Reece, Za’Nyla Reece, and Zachary Reece; and her son Laithe Reece and grandson Laith Reece.

She is also survived by her brothers Carlton Allen and Timothy Allen.