William DeForest Reese

William "Bill" DeForest Reese, 94, of Erie, Pennsylvania, met his Savior peacefully on May 11, 2024, surrounded by his family, music, and love.  

Born on August 27, 1929, Bill graduated from North East High School, and subsequently served as a bandsman in the U.S. Army during the Korean War era, playing tuba with the 28th Division Band and U.S. Army Field Band.

Following his military service, Bill attended Gannon University and worked for Howe Coffee and Hershey Foods. In 1976, he started his own business as a professional piano technician, and went on to provide this service to the community for nearly 40 years.

Bill was deeply devoted to his family, and is survived by Carol Ann (Tennant) Reese, his beloved wife of 71 years, his children Daniel (Joyce) Reese of Erie, Timothy (Pamela) Reese of State College, Rebecca (Scott) Silfies of Newmarket, NH,  Matthew (Holly) Reese of Thaleischweiler, Germany, eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by sons Mark William and Paul David Reese.

A man of faith and integrity, Bill had a deep love for God. Bill and Carol were founding members of Garden Heights Baptist Church and longtime members of Fairview Bible Church. His dedication to his faith was evident every day through his actions and his commitment to his church family.

Bill was an active musician throughout his life, and played various instruments with groups around the region, including the Erie Philharmonic, North East Legion-Fireman band, East Erie Turners Band, Erie Troubadours, Deutschmeisters (Westfield, NY), Dixie Doodlers, Millcreek Community Band, and Concert Band of Northwest Pennsylvania. His musical legacy lives on in his children, who each serve as musicians in their communities.  

Friends and family are invited to a memorial service at Fairview Bible Church, 6100 Avonia Rd., Fairview, PA on Saturday, May 18 at 2pm, with visitation starting at 1pm. Following the memorial service, military honors will be rendered by Erie Crawford County Burial Detail. Donations can be made to Fairview Bible Church or WLD Ranch.

Bill's wisdom, love for family, passion for music and sharp sense of humor will be dearly missed.

Arrangements entrusted to Burton Quinn Scott Cremation & Funeral Services Wintergreen, 2532 Norcross rd., Erie, PA 16510.