Jasper Bernie "JB" Reese, 95, of Lenoir, North Carolina passed away on February 11, 2026.  Born on May 17, 1930 in Hot Springs, North Carolina, JB lived a long and meaningful life marked by service, education, creativity, and deep love for his family and the outdoors.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Nola Plemmons Reese Williams; his father, Bernie Reese; his beloved wife, Helen W. Reese; his sister, Marie; and his brother, David.

He is survived by his four sons, John (wife Sandra), Brian (wife Libby), Scott (wife Kim) and Eric (wife Andrea); a daughter, Melinda Starnes; he is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; all of whom carry forward his legacy of strength and humor.

JB proudly served his country as an Air Force Veteran of the Korean War.  He served as principal of Collettsville Elementary School and the Patterson School for Boys, and also taught at Kings Creek, Hudson, and South Caldwell.  He was a graduate of Appalachian State University (then Appalachian State Teachers College) and Lenoir-Rhyne University, where he laid the foundation for his lifelong career in education.

Outside the classroom, JB was a man of many passions including earning his pilot's license and investing in land.  He was an avid fly fisherman, widely known for his skill and artistry in tying flies.  He enjoyed bird hunting, and his love of music was expressed through his guitar playing and songwriting.  He was also a storyteller at heart and co-authored two autobiographical books with Gretchen Griffith.  JB was also a member of Setzer's Gap Church.

JB will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, educator, veteran, outdoorsman, and musician.  His strong presence and creative spirit left an enduring mark on all who knew him.

The family extends special thanks to his devoted caregiver, Erica Coffey for her compassionate care.

His life was well lived and he will be deeply missed.

A funeral service for JB will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at 2:00 PM in the Chapel of Greer-McElveen Funeral Home with Rev. Ken Byerly and Rev. Howard Smith officiating.

Interment will follow immediately at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens in Lenoir.  Serving as pallbearers will be Bradley Reese, Kirby Reese, Fisher Reese, Walker Reese, Kendra Yang and Her Yang.

The family will have a receiving at the funeral home prior to the service from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Setzer's Gap Church, Caldwell County Senior Center now Thrive, or a charity of the donor's choice.