Lillie Mae Reece

Lillie Mae Reece, a beloved member of the Saulsbury community, slipped peacefully from this world on May 25, 2025, at the Maplewood Healthcare Center in Jackson, Tennessee. Born on May 20, 1938, in Saulsbury, she dedicated her life to serving others and nurturing the beauty around her. She retired in 1999 from the Department of Human Services, where her compassion for those in need shone brightly throughout her career.

Lillie's heart was as vibrant as the birds and flowers she so dearly loved. Her passion for all animals, particularly dogs and cats, reflected her nurturing spirit and genuine affection for life. Residing in Saulsbury her entire life, she enriched her community not just with her service but through her involvement as a member and former secretary of the Saulsbury Baptist Church. Her faith was a guiding light, radiating warmth and kindness to all who knew her.

Among her proud accomplishments, Lillie served as a former alderman with the City of Saulsbury, a role through which she tirelessly worked to improve her beloved hometown. Her dedication to public service was a reflection of her deep-seated love for her community and a testament to her unwavering character.

Lillie leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory, including her nephew, Cody Forshea of Jackson; stepdaughter, Cheryl Navarro and her husband, Albert of Florida; stepson, Ricky Reece and his wife, Mary of Washington; and her cherished step-grandchildren, Andrews and Liam Neece. She is also survived by great nephews and great nieces—Clay Forshea, Amy Coulston, and Jana Turner—, along with several great-great nieces and nephews, and great-great-great nieces and nephews, all of whom adored her.

She is reunited in eternal rest with her cherished parents, Harris Van Williams and Evelyn Clark Williams, her late husband, Herman Stanley Reece, her sister, Iris Williams Forshea, and her beloved nephews, Jay, David, and Ronnie Forshea, who filled her life with love and laughter.

Lillie Mae Reece's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, kindness, and unwavering dedication. Her laughter, compassion, and gentle spirit will continue to resonate in the hearts of those whom she touched. As we celebrate her legacy, a memorial service will be held on June 7, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Saulsbury Baptist Church, a place that was so dear to her heart.

In the words of those she loved, Lillie will forever be remembered as a guiding light whose impact will not be forgotten. May her soul rest in peace, embraced by the beauty she cherished.  Memorial contributions in her name may be sent to Saulsbury Baptist Church.