Bennie G. Reese

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Bennie G. Reese, a devoted husband, educator, coach, and mentor who dedicated over 30 years of his life to shaping young minds both in the classroom and on the athletic field. Bennie departed this world peacefully, leaving behind a profound legacy of leadership, perseverance, and unwavering dedication to youth development.

Born in Memphis to the late Walter and Bobbie Jean Reese of Clarendon Bennie grew up in a loving family that instilled in him a strong work ethic and deep-rooted values. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Keith Reese.

Bennie was a proud graduate of Clarendon High School in Clarendon, Texas, Class of 1970. Following graduation, he pursued his passion for education and athletics on a full athletic scholarship, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from Howard Payne University in 1975, with a minor in Social Studies and Health. Additionally, he was a member of the Howard Payne football team, which won the Lone Star Conference Championship of 1971

As a dedicated member of the Black Alumni Association at Howard Payne University, Bennie took great pride in mentoring students from all backgrounds, advocating for equal access to education and athletic opportunities.

Bennie dedicated his career to shaping young minds and athletes, beginning as a youth counselor at the Brownwood State School before transitioning into education. He served for decades as an Honors American and World History teacher, Assistant Head Football Coach/Defensive Coordinator, and Head Coach for Track and Baseball. His passion for education and sports left a lasting impact at Palo Duro High School in Amarillo, Texas; Athens High School in Athens, Texas; and Liberty-Eylau High School in Texarkana, Texas, culminating in his retirement from Waxahachie High School in Waxahachie, Texas.

Bennie’s love for teaching history ignited a passion for learning in his students, while his leadership on the football field instilled discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. As a dedicated coach in football, track, and baseball, he inspired his athletes to strive for excellence, emphasizing hard work, sportsmanship, and commitment leaving a lasting impact on countless young athletes whose lives he shaped both on and off the field.

Under his guidance, his teams achieved multiple district championships and playoff appearances, including leading Liberty-Eylau High School to a Texas 3A Division I State Championship in1999. His unwavering commitment to his players and students extended beyond the classroom and field, as he was a mentor, father figure, and lifelong supporter of those he taught and coached.

Bennie Reese is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years, Judy Reese of Waxahachie, Texas. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Their union was blessed with two beloved children: Detria Daniels of (Aubrey,Texas) and Ben Reese Jr. (Charity) of (Arlington, Texas.)

He is also lovingly remembered by his devoted siblings, Walter Reese (Lafayette, Louisiana) Margaret Reese-Calloway (Charles) (Rockwall,Texas); Kenneth Reese (Joan) (Pleasant Grove, Texas).

Bennie was a proud grandfather to his cherished grandchildren: Jordan Daniels (Dallas, Texas), Bria Daniels (Plano, Texas); Morgan Reese (Grand Prairie, Texas) Trinity Reese (Grand Prairie, Texas). He was deeply loved by his extended family, Manzelle Gardner, Uncle (Amarillo, Texas), Doris Gardner, Aunt (Clarendon, Texas), Larnce & Jewel Gardner, Uncle & Aunt (Forney, Texas), Peggy Fulton, Sister-in-law (Houston, Texas), Almeda Griffin, Sister-in-law (Houston, Texas), James Collins, Brother-in-law (San Diego, California)
Bennie will be dearly missed by a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family who cherished him deeply. His legacy of love, kindness, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Bennie’s influence will continue to be felt in the many lives he touched, the lessons he imparted, and the values he instilled. His wisdom, kindness, and unwavering belief in the potential of youth will live on as his greatest legacy.

A memorial service will be held in his honor in Grand Prairie at his son’s church (Shady Grove) on March 6, 2025, at 6:30 p.m., where friends, family, and former students are welcome to celebrate his life and contributions. Funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 8, 2025, in Robertson Funeral Directors Saints’ Roost Chapel in Clarendon. Burial will follow in Citizens Cemetery in Clarendon. Viewing will be held prior to the service from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. at the funeral home.

Rest in peace, Coach Reese. Your lessons, both in history and in life, will never be forgotten.