William R Reece, 75, of New Oxford, PA died Saturday morning, September 9, 2023 at the Gettysburg Hospital.
Born December 17, 1947 in Harrisburg, PA he was the son of the late Thomas Reece and Virginia (Blough) Reece.
He was the husband of the late Sandra Reece who died in 2011. He was preceded in death by his brother Thomas Reece, and sister Terri Gamble (Reece).
Bill was a Veteran of the United States Army earning a Purple Heart during the Vietnam War. After his discharge he worked for the Department of Defense, retiring after 25 years of service.
Bill loved to stay active, and in retirement he continued to volunteer throughout his community, most notably at Wellspan Gettysburg Hospital, which he loved.
No matter the where, Bill brought with him an undeniable presence of joy and positivity that brought smiles to anyone he crossed paths with. Never without wit or a joke waiting to be told, he was the personification of Happiness.
Bill and longtime friend and partner Sue Fehringer loved to go on cruises, and they did so frequently. They were also involved with the Gettysburg Theater and appeared in several productions together. If there was an opportunity for fun to be had, Bill was an eager and willing participant ready to try anything, especially if it involved time spent with those he loved.
Bill is survived by his mother, Virginia Reece of Gettysburg, PA, his children, Jennifer Reece of Buffalo, NY, Richard Reece of Buffalo, NY, and Brandon (Christy) Reece, of Harrisburg, PA, and grandchildren Julianna and Mitchel (Jennifer), and Kalie, Michael, Matthew and Logan (Brandon). His grandchildren fondly knew him as “Pappy Bill”.
Private graveside services will be held at Ft. Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville, PA.
The Monahan Funeral Home will be handling funeral arrangements and online condolences may be made at the funeral home’s website.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of William R Reece may be made to The Wounded Warrior Project online here.
A Celebration of Life will be open to all family and friends at Penbrook American Legion Post 730 located at 3813 Walnut St. Harrisburg, PA 17109 on Monday, September 25, 2023 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
