Mary Ellen Christian Reese

Alderson-Mary Ellen Christian Reese, 88, passed away Sunday, Oct. 22, 2023 at the Peyton Hospice House in Fairlea, following a sudden illness.

Born Sept. 4, 1935 in Beckley, she was the daughter of the late French Russell and Hallie Ardene Shanklin Christian.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Edward Reese, Sr.; daughter, Barbara Brooks; grandson, Mitchell Lee Phillips; sister, Helen Wedge; and two brothers, Lawrence Christian and Charles Christian.

Mrs. Reese was a homemaker, a 1952 graduate of Alderson High School in Alderson, and was a volunteer at the Alderson Senior Citizens Center.  She was a member of the Alderson Chapter No. 119 Order of the Eastern Star and was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of Tri County Memorial VFW Post 6723, Alderson. Mrs. Reese enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, especially her grandchildren and loved her dog Niko.

Survivors include a son, Charles Edward “Chip” Reese, Jr. of Alderson; three daughters, Chrissy Harris and husband, Roger, of Alderson, Donna Martin of Lewisburg, and Nancy Smith and companion, George, of Alderson; brother, Jerry Gable of Peru, IN; sister, Mary Dingman of Shelbyville, IN; nine grandchildren, David Brooks, Aaron Brooks, Michelle Hill and husband, Jason, Charles Phillips and wife, Dana, Amy Smith, Jason Smith, Keri Crane, and husband, Denny, Stacy Shires and companion, Joey, and Stephen Reese McLaughlin; 20 great-grandchildren; seven great-great grandchildren; special family friend that was like a son, Pat Standard; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, Oct. 26, at the Lobban Funeral Home Chapel in Alderson where Joe Baker officiated. Burial followed in the Fletcher Addition of the Alderson Cemetery at Alderson. Visitation was on Wednesday evening, Oct. 25, at the funeral home.

Family served as pallbearers.

The family would like to sincerely thank the staff of the Peyton Hospice House for the wonderful care and attention provided.

For those wishing to show an expression of sympathy, donations may be made in memory of Mrs. Reese to the Peyton Hospice House, 1265 Maplewood Avenue, Lewisburg, WV 24901.

Online condolences and memories may be shared with the Reese family at www.lobbanfh.com.

Arrangements by Lobban Funeral Home, Alderson, WV.