Lecil Reece, 92, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, honor, and devotion.
Born April 19, 1933, in Big Flat, Arkansas, Lecil grew up with a deep sense of faith, family, and duty. He met the love of his life, Bettie Weaver, in high school, and together they graduated from Perryville High School in 1952. They were married shortly after and spent 68 wonderful years together before Bettie’s passing. Their reunion in heaven is one of joy and celebration!
Lecil dedicated his life to serving his country as a career military man in the United States Army. His bravery and leadership earned him numerous honors, including the Bronze Star Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, and many others. He served multiple tours of duty with unwavering commitment to protecting both his country and his loved ones.
Lecil’s love for the outdoors was second only to his devotion to God, family, and country. He was an avid outdoorsman who found joy in hunting, fishing, and the beauty of nature. His faith was central to his life; the Bible was his favorite book, and he drew strength and comfort from his favorite hymn, How Great Thou Art.
Lecil was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Bettie Reece; his son, Chris Reece; his grandson, Will Reece; his parents; and his sisters.
He is survived by his daughters, DuWan Wetzel (Jay Wetzel) and Pam Reece (Tori Weight); his grandchildren, Valerie Finn (Vinnie Finn) and Jay Michael Wetzel (Jossie Wetzel); and his great-grandchildren, Vincent, Vance, Varen, and Vayda Finn, and Annabel, Clark, Samuel, and Henry Wetzel. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, who loved him dearly.
Lecil’s life was one of faith, service, and love, a life well lived and an example to all who knew him.
A memorial service will be held at Crossroads Community Church in East China, Michigan, on Sunday, August 24, 2025, at 3 pm EST. A graveside service will be at Freeman Cemetery in Big Flat, Arkansas on August 27, 2025, at 11am CST. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to the Wounded Warrior Project in Lecil’s name.
