
In Loving Memory

Theresa Reese
May 12, 1964 — May 11, 2026
It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Theresa Reese, who departed this life on May 11, 2026, just one day shy of her 62nd birthday. Theresa was born on May 12, 1964, in Atlanta, GA, to the late Algie and Susie Reese. She was a beacon of love and kindness, touching the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Theresa's journey began in the vibrant city of Atlanta, where she was nurtured and raised in a loving family. She attended John Hope Elementary, Austin T. Walden Middle School, and graduated from Grady High School with the class of 1982. Her educational journey laid the foundation for a life filled with dedication to both her career and her community.
A woman of versatile skills and unwavering commitment, Theresa embarked on her professional journey with McGraw Hill Publishing Company, where she spent her early adult years. Her career path later led her to serve the City of Atlanta Parks and Recreation at the MLK Jr. and Selena Butler centers, and she devoted several years to the State of Georgia Tag/Title. Theresa concluded her extensive work catalog with the Fulton County Tax/Tag Commissioners Office, leaving behind a legacy of diligence and integrity.
Theresa's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She chose God as her Lord and Savior at an early age and was a devoted member of Faith Temple Missionary Baptist Church. Her spiritual journey was marked by her unwavering faith and her commitment to serving others, embodying the teachings of Christ in her everyday life.
She was known for her sweet, warm temperament and her innate ability to extend a helping hand. Theresa's passion for serving people was evident in every aspect of her life. Her love for her family was unparalleled, and she cherished every moment spent with her children and grandchildren. She found immense joy in baking pound cakes, a labor of love that brought smiles to her loved ones' faces.
Theresa is survived by her adoring family, who will continue to carry her spirit in their hearts: her daughters, Mrs. Renkica Young (Collin Young) and Daquaashie Johnson, and her son, Frank Smith. Her legacy lives on in her six cherished grandchildren: Terence Phillips III, Teriq Phillips, Tenai Phillips, Kobe Brown, Royal Smith, and Truth Smith. Theresa also leaves behind a loving network of sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, all of whom were touched by her kindness and generosity.
She is predeceased by her beloved parents, Algie and Susie Reese, her sister, Mildred Reese, and her brother, Samuel Reese. In their heavenly embrace, she finds eternal peace.
As we gather to celebrate the life of Theresa Reese, let us remember her not with sorrow, but with gratitude for the love, warmth, and compassion she shared with all. Her legacy is one of service, love, and unwavering faith, and she will forever be missed but never forgotten.
A service honoring her life will be held at Faith Temple Missionary Baptist Church, where she was a treasured member. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a community service organization of your choice, in honor of Theresa's lifelong dedication to serving others.
May her soul rest in eternal peace, and may her memory continue to inspire us all.