Delia Elizabeth Reese

Delia Elizabeth Smith, born in Norfolk, Virginia, was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, and grandmother. She was the cherished daughter of Luis and Dorothy Smith. Delia graduated from Booker T. Washington High School, laying the foundation for a life filled with purpose and faith.

A devoted member of the Presbyterian Catholic Church in Norfolk, Virginia, as well as Hayter Chapel COGIC and Skinner Temple COGIC in Longview, Texas, Delia's spiritual journey was a cornerstone of her life. She married the love of her life, Jessie Reese, on October 23, 1963, in Longview, Texas, and together they raised three wonderful children: Leslie Steve Reese (Chrisshone), Catherine Denise Reese, and Rolanda Lee Reese (Kimberly).

Delia was preceded in death by her father, Luis Smith; her mother, Dorothy Smith; and her beloved grandson, Calvin L. Wallace Jr. She leaves behind a legacy of love and faith, cherished by her grandchildren: ShaToya R. Wallace, Je’Kalvin S. Wallace, Chad X. Ali, Taylor S. Reese, Heavunli U. Reese, Tatum M. Reese, Jerimiah O. Reese, and Ashley Sanders.

She is also survived by her siblings, Charles R. Smith of Virginia Beach, Virginia, and Barbara A. Woodson of Chicago, Illinois. Delia had a special bond with her favorite nephews: Warren Yancey Sr., Luis Yancey, Fred D. Woodson, Randy A. Woodson (all from Chicago, IL), and Warren Yancey Jr. from Forney, Texas, along with her cherished nieces Lashawn R. Yancey and Karen Yancey. Additionally, she is remembered fondly by a host of brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews, as well as her dear friends: Opal Gray, Liz McCarty, Irma Phillips, Bobbie Mitchell, and Clamella Skinner.

Professionally, Delia made her mark as one of the first Black women in Radiology at Good Shepherd Hospital, where she worked tirelessly to provide care and compassion to her patients. Known for her motto, "Going 100 miles per hour while hearing Amazing Grace on their way to X-ray," she dedicated her career to the health care field as a CNA and later as an LVN, retiring three times in her commitment to service.

Delia's true passion lay in music, having been nurtured in song during her childhood in Norfolk. She was an active member of the Interdenominational Choir, directed by the late Eddie Templeton. Alongside her husband, Deacon Jessie Reese, Delia shared her gift of song with the elderly in nursing homes and assisted living facilities, offering love and comfort through music, prayer, and scripture until the pandemic changed their outreach. Her unwavering faith in God was evident in every conversation, as she consistently sought to uplift and provide spiritual solace to those around her. Delia was a true ambassador of Christ, sharing the gospel of Jesus and serving as a Holy Ghost witness wherever she went. Delia Elizabeth Reese will be deeply missed, but her spirit, love, and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

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