Martha Reese

Saltillo – Martha Reese, 88, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 18, 2026. She was born on Sunday, October 9, 1938, to the late Carolyn and Hewitt Lockhart.

She was a devoted grandmother, affectionately known as “Bebe,” and her grandchildren were truly the light of her life. She enjoyed spending her time working on any kind of puzzles, whether it was doing a crossword or putting puzzles together. You could often find her with a crochet needle in her hand and watching a game show on television. She enjoyed being able to cook for her family. They will always remember what a wonderful sense of humor Martha had, and a way of keeping everyone around her smiling. She was also known for making sure that everyone knew she was always right! So much so that her favorite saying was “I told you!” As a loyal Mississippi State fan, she proudly cheered on her team through all of the ups and downs. Her faith was a very important part of her life, and she loved watching Saltillo Methodist Church services online. She also faithfully served alongside her husband as a pastor’s wife, for many years within the Methodist Church.

Martha is survived by her son, Scott Reese of Dallas, Texas; daughter, Jennifer Reese and her fiancé, Tony Whittemore of Saltillo; grandchildren, Johnathan Ellis (Jade) of Fort Cobb, Oklahoma, Xan Reese (Kali) of Saltillo and John Mark Reese (Madison) of Saltillo; great-grandchildren, Jet Ellis, Letty Ellis and Rendy Ellis all of Fort Cobb, Oklahoma; sister, Betty Darnell of Caledonia; great-granddaughter, Adalyn Reese, who will be making her arrival soon; and nephew, Rick Darnell (Karen) of Brandon. 

She was preceded in death by her husband of 43 years, George Reese; parents; and daughter, Tonya Ellis. 

Visitation will be from 12 p.m. until service time Friday, October 23, 2026, at Pegues, Saltillo. 

The funeral service honoring Mrs. Martha’s life will be at 2 p.m. Friday, October 23, 2026, at the Saltillo Chapel of Pegues Funeral Directors with Rev. Tim Green officiating. A graveside service will follow at Saltillo Cemetery. 

Pallbearers are, Xan Reese, John Mark Reese, Johnathan Ellis, Rick Darnell,Tony Whittemore, and Devin Bowen.

Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be made to www.peguesfuneralhome.com.