After graduation from Tatum High School, he attended Butler College in Tyler, Texas. After completing a semester, he joined the U.S. Army. His service in Germany was an exciting experience for him. After his stint in the Army, he returned to Butler College where he met Ellece. Dornell and Ellece were married in Oklahoma City on August 31, 1957. The couple returned to Tyler, and Dornell resumed his studies at Butler College. In January, 1958 in the couple moved to Dallas, Texas.
After the move to Dallas, Dornell was employed at Cokesbury Book Store for several years. He also worked part-time at Treasure City, as a Security Guard. Several years later, he became employed by the U.S. Post Office as a clerk. Several months later, he became a postman, serving at the Royal Lane Station. By this time, two sons has been born, Dornell Jr. in 1958, and Andre Bernard in 1964. The family joined Highland Hills United Methodist Church in 1962, and became active members in the growth of this church.
After retiring from the Post Office, Dornell worked part-time in the Shoe Department at Dillard's Department Store, where he received several awards for his outstanding salesmanship. After retiring from Dillard's, Dornell spent his time assisting around the Church, picking up his grandchildren from school, and working in his garden, He especially loved sharing his produce with friends and neighbors.
Dornell is survived by his wife, Ellece; his two sons and daughter-in-law, Dornell and Karla and Andre; two grandsons, Garrisen Chase and D'Ante Kirsawn; eight brothers and sisters, J.P. Reese, Lorenza Fletcher, Alva Gene Reese, Fred Reese, Marie Mills, Josephine Echols, Glenda Reese and Terry Reese; numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins; friends and his Church Family.
Dornell will be greatly missed!
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