Robert Dale Reese

Robert Dale Reese, age 70 of Strawberry Plains, TN, formerly of Dandridge, passed away at his home on Feb. 20, 2023 at the age of 70. Dale was born to the late Robert Reese and Betty Jo (Roberts) Reese on June 4, 1952. He was a graduate of Maury High School (1970) and the University of Tennessee with a Bachelor of Science degree. In addition to his parents, Dale was preceded in death by his brother, David Reese, and his sister, Debora Reese.  Dale is survived by brother Donnie Reese (Tracy); long-time companion Betty Furry; sons Zachary Reese (Brittanie) and Darren Reese (Lyndsey); granddaughters Callie and Joneslie; nieces Stephanie Nix and Ashley Reese; nephew Daniel Reese.  Dale’s life was defined by his strong work ethic. He grew up working on the family farm on Dumplin Valley Rd. and then went to work at the White Store during high school to help provide for the family.  As a student at UT, he took a job on third-shift at the post office and that began what would become a 37-year career with the United States Postal Service that eventually saw him rise to Manager of Processing and Distribution at the USPS Knoxville Main Office on Weisgarber Rd. He retired in 2007.  Dale took extreme pride in the accomplishments of his family.  He had a strong love for sports, going back to when he and his siblings played games in the pasture fields on the farm. He played baseball in high school and later enjoyed playing on local recreation softball teams for many years. He was also an avid golfer and one of the early members of Dandridge Golf and Country Club. He was a devoted New York Yankees fan. Upon his retirement from the Postal Service, he enjoyed gardening and working around his house.  There are no immediate plans for a service but a celebration of Dale’s life will be held at a later date.  ARRANGEMENTS BY FARRAR FUNERAL HOME, DANDRIDGE, TN,  www.farrarfuneralhome.com