Marlin Robert Reese

Marlin Robert Reese, husband and father, cherished member of his church community, passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side on May 7, 2026. Born on April 27, 1942, in Gallipolis, Ohio, and raised in Oak Hill, Ohio, Marlin lived a life defined by his deep commitment to faith, family, and fellowship.

A lifelong lover of music and a member of many local churches, Marlin was profoundly involved in music ministries throughout his life. He notably served as choir director at Reynoldsburg Freewill Baptist Church, and was a skilled musician in his own right, with the ability to play piano, guitar, and several other instruments by ear. He was also known for his beautiful and harmonious singing voice, and sang with several groups from childhood; including singing on the local radio stations with his siblings.

Marlin’s professional journey was marked by over 40 years of dedication as an over-the-road truck driver affiliated with the Teamsters Union. His career allowed him to travel extensively while maintaining the values of hard work and responsibility that he held dear. Upon retirement, he was known for his enduring enthusiasm for Chrysler automobiles—a passion that spanned his entire life.

Life for Marlin was never just about work, and he cherished his moments of free time by spending them either traveling or in the company of his church members and family.

He is lovingly survived by his wife, Aldine (Mullins) Reese; his children Connie (Doug) Erwin, Mark (Sally) Reese, Patricia (Greg) Mobley, Tim (Jill) Reese; and his step-children Gary (Lelah) James, Tabitha (Todd) Ratcliffe, and special step-daughter - Jennifer (Doyle) James. His legacy continues through his grandchildren David (KerryAnn) Erwin, Jonathan (Hannah) Erwin, Emma (Ryan) Baker, Mark Anthony (Ashley) Reese, Gregory Maxwell Mobley, Makayla (John III) Meade, and Lily (Luke) Reese, as well as his great-grandchildren Ora Elizabeth Erwin, Micah Erwin, and Ella Erwin. Marlin was part of a large extended family, including 13 surviving siblings, numerous nieces and nephews, many step-grandchildren, and several in-laws, who will all hold his memory dear.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rev. John Robert and Loretta Ellen (Adkins) Reese, his loving first wife of over 56 years, Ora Lee (Coleman) Reese, and siblings Richard Reese and Shirley Daily.

A gathering of family and friends will be held starting at 11:00 AM, on Thursday, June 18, 2026. A Celebration of Marlin's life will begin at 12:00 PM. Services will be held at Southwest Freewill Baptist Church; 1542 Green Leaf Road, Columbus, OH 43223.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Gideons International to purchase and provide bibles to assist with spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the world; PO Box 140800, Nashville, TN 37214-0800 or https://gideons.org/ .