Deborah was a kind, witty, wonderful friend in California. I loved visiting with her every month. Her sweet energy and smile were heart-warming, and lifted my spirit. 
I miss her so much. Rest in peace, Deborah!

The memory that sticks with me about my grandma is when she taught me how to make a pie crust. She showed me how to add flour or water to make the perfect texture, how to crimp the edges, and how to blind bake. She never passed up a chance to tease me about my confusion but was ready to help. That honestly sums up my relationship with my grandmother. She was quick to laugh but quicker to help and quicker still to love.

I miss Grandma very much. She was the most graceful woman I have ever known, or will know. She taught me to be smart, and gentle, and fun. I often think that I am lucky to look so much like her, as she was truly a beautiful person, inside and out. I am so grateful for the time I had with her. I hope that we as a family can cherish, and continue her memory as time moves forward

Christmas December 2005 Irvine CA.  Few pictures captured Deborah's beautiful golden-green eyes.  So rare but matched with her infectious smile she won my heart for ever!

My grandmother did all things with a grace and poise that was unmatched. It was by her example I have tried to live my life with a maturity and kindness to others that came as naturally to her as breathing. I would call her with something quick and fun to talk about and somehow we could talk for hours on end. She was an extraordinary person and a wonderful grandmother.

Deborah dearly loved to walk!  This was taken in Irvine, CA one lovely spring day while we were taking advantage of the beautiful day.

My grandmother was always kind to me. Always had en ear to chat about near enough any topic. Always took a very youthful joy at things. I will always remember our talks, our walks, and our meals together. I am a better man for having known her.

Deborah lived in El Paso Tx while I was in Vietnam.   This photo was taken at an old time photo booth at the airport where she worked and the only picture I had of her while I was in Vietnam.

I first met Patrick and Deborah in 1981 in Lake Elsinore, California. Patrick was serving in the Marine Corps,  so was my husband at the time. While we lived in Lake Elsinore, Patrick became our home teacher at church. In 1982, Patrick and Deborah were our escorts to the Los Angeles Temple. Deborah taught our Gospel Doctrine class, and she was one of the best teachers I’ve ever had.

Deborah and I clicked, and she became my very dear best friend and “sister” of nearly 45 years. Deborah and I shared many interests; we loved to talk and learn from one another.

I will miss Deborah’s seasonal answering machine updates. They always made me smile. Although we moved great distances from each other, we always kept in contact. I will forever miss our multiple hour-long phone calls; we were certain we could solve all the world's problems. 

I am grateful to Heavenly Father that you became a part of my life. I’m grateful I have kept every letter and card Deborah sent me over the years, and every email or text we shared. 

I will miss you terribly, my sweet, sweet sister.  Until we meet again, Prayers and Love, 
Tam xoxo

Dear Reese Family,

I extend my deepest condolences to you during this difficult time. While I may not be family, a neighbor, or a close friend, I feel compelled to share how profoundly Deborah and Patrick have influenced my life.

Nearly forty years ago, I had the privilege of working with Patrick, who became a mentor to me. His guidance, along with Deborah's unwavering support, helped me navigate my journey through recovery from addiction. Thanks to their kindness, I achieved my college degrees, advanced in my career, and cultivated a meaningful spiritual life.

The ripple effect of their love and service reaches far beyond what one might expect, and I am a testament to the magnitude of their impact. 

Rest in peace, dear Deborah. I hold you and Patrick deep in my heart and prayers.

Deborah loved visiting Disneyland and we did so often.  More than anything at the park Deborah loved watching the children so excited at just having fun.  As we walked around the park seeing the children of all ages laughing, happy and having so much fun gave her great pleasure.

Pat and Debbie are very special people.  I think of them often and the kindness and support they have given to so many people.  I remember their kindness when I was in the hospital many years ago and Pat, with Debbie's support, traveled 1 1/2 hours to visit and support me. They have always been ready to offer help and support to anyone that needed it.  They are definitely at the top of my list for great people.

We are so sorry for your loss. We knew Patrick and Deborah while they lived in Lake Elsinore for about 10 years. I was just thinking about Patrick and Deborah last week. Wondering where they lived and how they were. Deborah could always be counted on for any help that was needed. We will miss her. 
George & Diana Kramer
Lake Elsinore, CA.

OBITUARY

Deborah Fay Reese

July 22, 1948 – January 19, 2026

Mullins & Thompson Funeral Service

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