Roy Lee Reese

Roy Lee Reese, 95, of Des Moines, Iowa, died at Wesley on Grand on July 13, 2024. A memorial service to celebrate Roy’s life will be held at Grace United Methodist Church (3700 Cottage Grove Ave., Des Moines, IA 50311) on Monday, July 22, 2024. A Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. A memorial service will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by a light lunch.

The livestream link is under the Memorial Service information below.

The first day of September, 1928,

a hot humid day, typical for the state.

Inside a small farmhouse, so neat and well-kept,

the family awaited a blessed event.

Gentle father, dear mother, their girl and their boy

were soon joined by another - sweet baby Roy.

Raised among rolling hills, tall trees and brooks,

Roy excelled with a shotgun and also with books.

From Mount Ayr to Huxley, Drake U for a year,

Roy earned his degree with a loud "Go Hawks!" cheer.

Roy quickly was hired by a publishing firm,

but soon the U.S. Army called him to serve.

From Fort Leonard Wood, through the majestic Golden Gate,

to Okinawa where the 29th Infantry Regiment made Roy's experience great.

Back home at Meredith Publishing, in the magazine life,

Roy fell in love with Marilyn, who soon would be his wife.

Together they built a home filled with laughter, friends and fun,

with two daughters, one dog and cats - more than one.

Their travels took them 'round the world from Russia to Viet Nam,

but home is where the heart is, and their home is Des Moines.

Roy went to church each Sunday, but it wasn't just for show,

his Christian love and giving is the truest that you’ll know.

Let's celebrate Roy, loved by family and friends alike,

a brother, dad, husband, son and grandpa who loved and embraced life.

Roy is preceded in death by his father Melvin, mother Grace, sister Neva, and brother Don.

He leaves behind Marilyn, his beloved wife of 69 years, daughter Barb, daughter Laura, son-in-law Gary, grandchildren Sarah and Colin, brother Max and countless loving relatives and friends.

Roy chose to donate his body to Des Moines University.

Interment will be at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Grace United Methodist Church or a charity of your choice.

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