In the comforting embrace of the Lord, August L. "Gus" Reese, aged 92, was called to his eternal home on December 13, 2024, in Cleveland, Ohio. Born May 10, 1932, in the historic city of Vicksburg, Mississippi, Gus was a beacon of faith and a vessel of the Lord's grace throughout his blessed life.

Gus's journey on this earth was marked by an unwavering commitment to service, both in his country and his community. As a young man, he answered the nation's call as an Air Force veteran, serving with valor and integrity. Upon returning to civilian life, Gus continued to demonstrate his dedication to providing for his family and others as a skilled butcher, a profession in which his hands were as adept at offering comfort as they were in his craft.

The light of the Lord shone brightly within Gus, guiding him to further his education in theology. His love for the Lord and His Word led him to attend the seminary, where he earned an Associate in Theological Studies. Gus's passion for history and reading enriched his understanding and appreciation of the world, allowing him to share with others the lessons of our past and the promises of our faith.

Gus was a man of profound character, embodying the virtues of being faith-filled, selfless, and loving. His life was a living sermon, preaching the gospel not only with words but through his actions. He was the embodiment of the Good Samaritan, always placing others before himself and tending to the needs of his neighbors with a gentle heart and a generous spirit.

He was preceded in glory by his beloved wife, Rebecca Reese, with whom he shared a sacred bond of love and devotion. Together, they cultivated a family rooted in love and faith. Gus's legacy lives on through his cherished children, Stanley, Jacqueline, Stephen, and Kathleen. He loves “papa’s babies” 6 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren each of whom he loved with the boundless love that only a father can provide.

Gus's life was a testament to the enduring power of love and the strength that comes from an unwavering faith in the Almighty. He walked through this world as a shepherd, tending to his flock with a gentle hand and a kind heart. In every chapter of his life, Gus was guided by the divine light, and now, he has been called to rest in the eternal peace of God's kingdom.

As we bid farewell to our dearly departed brother in Christ, August, let us find comfort in the knowledge that he has been welcomed into the arms of our Savior. We rejoice in the blessed assurance that his soul rests with the saints and angels, and that his memory will forever be a beacon of hope and love to all who knew him.

We shall not say goodbye to Gus, but rather, until we meet again at the Lord's table, where we shall break bread together in the glory of Heaven. Let us carry forward the lessons he taught us: to live with compassion, to serve with humility, and to love without end.

May the life of August be an inspiration to us all, and may his spirit continue to guide us on our path to righteousness. We celebrate the life of a true man of God, and we give thanks for the time we were blessed to share with him. Amen.