James A. Reese Sr.

James A. Reese Sr., 88, of Mansfield went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, June 11, 2017 at OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital. He was the son of Glenn and Ethel (Carpenter) Reese and was born on July 22, 1928 in Philippi, West Virginia.

"Day is done, gone the sun from the lake, from the hill, from the sky. All is well, safely rest. God is nigh. Thanks and praise for our days 'neath the sun, 'neath the stars, 'neath the sky. As we go, this we know. God is nigh."

James proudly served his country in the US Army. While in the Army he played football, and while serving during the latter part of WWII he learned automotive training. James moved to Mansfield for work, and retired after 38 years from AK Steel where he was a crane operator. He always played Santa Claus for the Local Union 169 Steel Workers Christmas party. James was involved in coaching youth football and basketball for over 30 years for the YMCA and Friendly House. He was involved at the Community Baptist Church where he drove the bus for events, and greatly enjoyed being with the children. James was loved by one and all and will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his children, Jessie Reese, James Reese Jr. (Celeste), David (Michelle) Reese, and Linda Addington; nine grandchildren, David (Brooke) Reese II., Andrew (Kimber) Reese, Misty Reese, Ryan Addington, Amber (Chris) Dorsey, Jason Addington, Carrie (Dan) English, Preschie (David) Stirtzinger, and Tiffany Jessop; fourteen great-grandchildren; three sisters-in-law, Flora Adkins, Charlotte Martin, and Mae Reese; a brother-in-law, Chester (Carol) Martin; and many nephews and nieces. He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife whom passed on October 29, 2003, Jessie Reese; a great grandson, Andrew James Reese; and brothers, June Reese and Richard Reese; and son-in-law, Randall Addington.

The family will welcome friends from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 15, 2017 at the Diamond Street Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 98 S. Diamond St. Mansfield. A funeral service officiated by Rev. Clifford Earl Tackett will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 16, 2017 at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Mansfield Cemetery.

Words of comfort may be expressed at www.wappner.com