Evelyn R. Reese, age 99, from Pandora, Ohio, peacefully passed away on August 1, 2024 in Bluffton. 

She was born on January 7, 1925 in Mt. Cory, Ohio, to the late Myron D. and Ruth (Hauenstein) Moyer.  Evelyn graduated from Mt. Cory School in the Class of 1942.  After attending Bluffton College for a year, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Bowling Green State University.

On July 7, 1946, Evelyn married Lehr Jay Reese at her family home in Mt. Cory. She is survived by their children Dave (Jan) Reese of Mt. Cory, Kathie Inniger of Columbus, and Jana (Steve) Amstutz of Pandora and a daughter-in-law, Joan Reese of Mt. Cory.  Evelyn impacted numerous lives through her service to others and was blessed by her fifteen grandchildren,  Matthew (Jenna) Reese, Aaron (Jenn) Reese, Jay (Brittany) Reese, Jeff (Haley) Reese, Alyssa (Steve) Bixler, Emily (Isaac) Seevers, Jen (Jeff) Wahl, Carrie (Matt) Spohn, Erick (Kimberly) Reese, Anna (Brendon) Reiners, Kelsey (Nick) Hirsch, Nathan (Amy) Amstutz, Jonathan (Stacey) Amstutz, Sarah (Ben) Thiel, Rebekah (Tyler) Braidic and forty-four great-grandchildren.  

Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents, Myron and Ruth Moyer; her husband Lehr Jay; a son, Ron Reese; a son-in-law, Mike Inniger and a brother and sister-in-law Robert and Marjorie Moyer.

A passionate educator, Evelyn taught Home Economics and English for 25 years in Ada, Cory-Rawson, and Pandora-Gilboa Schools. She was a devoted farmer’s wife and mother. In retirement, she enjoyed traveling to Lehigh Acres, Florida, playing cards, and hosting family and friends.

Evelyn was actively engaged with her local church, Good Shepherd of Benton Ridge, Bluffton Senior Citizens, State and Putnam County Retired Teachers, Bluffton Shuffleboard Club, and various church groups. Her faith and joy in the Lord defined her character. She instilled family unity and emphasized the importance of following Jesus and cherishing each day.

Evelyn's services will begin at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, August 6, 2024 at the Good Shepherd Church of Benton Ridge.  Rev. Richard Hiltibran officiating.  Burial will be in Clymer Cemetery.  Visitation will be Monday, August 5, 2024 from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Chiles-Laman Funeral & Cremation Services, Bluffton and one hour prior to the service at the church.  The service will be live streamed at www.focusonthecross.org/

The family expresses gratitude to Maple Crest and Putnam County Hospice for their compassionate care of their mother.

Memorial contributions may be made to Good Shepherd Church of Benton Ridge or Maple Crest of Bluffton.  

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com/