Reese G. Jewkes, age 86, passed away peacefully in his home on January 29, 2026, just steps away from the very house where he was born.
Born on November 24, 1939, in Orangeville, Utah, to Lillis and Olive Sitterud Jewkes; Reese grew up with a deep connection to his roots. Following high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving aboard the USS Hopewell (DD-681). He eventually received an honorable hardship discharge to return home, a testament to his character, as he stepped in to help his mother care for his father following a severe stroke.
On November 10, 1962, Reese married the love of his life, Linda Lee Cox. Their union was later sealed for eternity in the Provo Utah Temple on November 10, 1982. Together, they shared over 63 years of marriage, building a legacy of faith and hard work.
Reese was a dedicated professional and a steward of the land. After attending vocational school in Provo, he worked for the Bureau of Reclamation, contributing to the construction of the Joe’s Valley Dam. He later dedicated 35 years to the Soil Conservation Service, retiring in January 2000.
A faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Reese served as ward clerk for over 15 years, among many other callings. He and Linda also found great joy serving together for several years in the Manti Utah Temple.
Reese was “famous” within the family for his sourdough scones at reunions and could often be found camping, woodworking, or tinkering with anything that needed fixing. He taught his four children to love the Lord and the value of a job well done.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Linda; his children: Julie (Keith) Foster, Selina (Chris) Hardman, Wade (Marci) Jewkes, and Greg (Jen) Jewkes; as well as 18 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sister, Diana Cox, and sisters-in-law, Annabelle Kagie and Karen Cox.
Reese was preceded in death by his parents, Lillis and Olive Jewkes; his parents-in-law, Frank and Anna Cox; an infant son; his brother, Coy (Betty) Jewkes; and his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Donald Cox, Soren (Fern) Cox, Mac Cox, Joyce (Blaine) Cox, and Grace Lance.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Primary Children’s Hospital and Ronald McDonald House in appreciation for the exceptional care provided to his granddaughter during her liver transplant.
Funeral service, Wednesday, February 4, 2026, 11:00 a.m., Orangeville First Ward Chapel where the family will receive friends Tuesday, February 3, 2026 from 6:00-8:00 p.m., and Wednesday morning at 9:30 a.m. prior to the service. Interment will follow with military honors in the Orangeville City Cemetery.
Arrangements entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home of Price and Huntington where friends and family are always welcome daily and may share memories of Reese online at www.mitchellfuneralhome.net.