Robert James "R.J." Reece

ROBERT JAMES "R.J." REECE, age 66, of Jefferson City, TN died Saturday, May 31, 2008 at his home with his loved ones near after a long battle with cancer. R. J. was born in 1941 to James and Nora Love Reece of Dandridge, TN. He played football at Maury High School in Dandridge and had a long and successful career in the furniture industry as both a business owner in Knoxville, TN and a manufacturer's representative throughout the Southeast. He enjoyed many activities, especially travel, golf and fishing. Well-liked by everyone who knew him, he demonstrated tremendous courage and resolve in the face of his illness. R. J. was a 32nd Degree Mason, Cherokee Lodge # 728, and a member of First United Methodist Church, Dandridge, TN. He was preceded in death by both of his parents and his son, Troy Christopher Reece of Knoxville. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Norma Jean Reece; son, James Gregory Reece; sister, Margaret Jenkins and brother-in-law, Tom Jenkins of Dandridge, TN; several nieces and nephews. The family wishes to thank Dr. Wahid Hanna and the nurses at both the University of Tennessee Hospital in Knoxville and Smoky Mountain Home Hospice. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Monday, June 2nd at the Dandridge First United Methodist Church. Funeral services to follow at the church with Rev. Richie Hayes and Rev. Larry DeVault officiating. Interment graveside Masonic services will be held Tuesday, 11:00 a.m. at Swann's Chapel Cemetery. ARRANGEMENTS BY FARRAR FUNERAL HOME IN DANDRIDGE, TN (865) 397-2711