Marion Jefferson Reece

Marion Jefferson Reece, 87, passed away peacefully in Asheville, NC surrounded by loving family.

Marion was born in Dahlonega, GA on July 26, 1938, to Clifford Marion Reece and Edith Crane Reece, the 5th of 6 children. His mother died when he was 2 years old and he lived with his Aunt Laura until his father married Jane Reece. Her son and two more children brought the total to 9. Joyce Harris of Canton, GA is his sole remaining sibling.

A graduate of Shorter College, where he met his future wife, Marion began his career in banking and financial planning in Charlotte, NC where he would marry, raise his family, join Myers Park United Methodist Church, and become an active member of the community where they would live for the next 62 years.

Marion was always interested in others and one of his greatest gifts was the way he was always connecting people. We used to laugh that he never served on a jury because when they asked if you knew anyone involved on either side, he was always dismissed. Of course he did; the man never met a stranger. He was an avid reader and gatherer of information. He would regularly send letters with articles he had cut out, which we appreciated more the older we got. He would remain calm in any situation, but could staunchly argue his position when needed. A true Southerner, he loved grits and collard greens.

Marion was willing to see the best in people and always willing to help others. His kindness is the first thing that comes to mind. As the family receives an outpouring of love and support, overwhelmingly the comments from those who knew him range from “he was one of the kindest men I’ve ever known,” and “he was the kindest, most steady and loving of men,” to “he was the most gentle and kind man.” What a legacy!

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Nell Silver Reece, daughter Katherine (Richie) Cullom and son Jeff (Darien) Reece, sister Joyce Harris and 5 grandchildren: Spencer Cullom, Sarah (Stephen) Cain, Will (Nikita Deng) Cullom, Liz Reece, and Jon Reece

A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 PM, Sunday, November 23, 2025 at Givens Estates Pulliam Chapel. Rev. Spencer Cullom and Rev. Kelli Mullinex will officiate. The family will receive friends following the service in the Stuenkel Living Room 2360 Sweeten Creek Road Asheville, NC 28803

Memorials may be sent to the Walter Ball Endowment Fund, Myers Park United Methodist Church 1501 Queens Rd. Charlotte NC 28207, The Harriet Bennet Sacred Music Endowment at Givens Estates, or the Resident Assistance Fund at Givens Estates.

Groce Funeral Home’s Lake Julian team is assisting the family.