Celebrating the life of
Marjorie Pursell Reese
November 24, 1930 - September 21, 2014
Among the most significant accomplishments of her life was her philanthropic involvement in a multitude of charitable organizations and causes
SAVANNAH – Marjorie Pursell Reese, 83, passed away Sunday, September 21, 2014, at her home.
A native of Minneapolis, MN, she attended the University of Minnesota where she was a member of Phi Beta Kappa and graduated Magna Cum Laude. She was also a member of the Gamma Phi Beta sorority in which she was active for many years after graduating from college including serving on the National Panhellenic Council.
After graduation Marjorie moved to New York City and served as Director of Admissions at Finch College. She married Robert B. Pursell and they settled in Monmouth County, NJ. Among the most significant accomplishments of her life was her philanthropic involvement. She served on the Board of the Community YMCA for over 15 years and was Board Chair for two of those years, when she oversaw a period of tremendous growth including the opening of a new building. She also served on the Board of the Monmouth Day Care Center in Red Bank, NJ for ten years, serving as head of the personnel committee as well as Board Chair. She helped to hire their first full time Executive Director and together they raised over one millions dollars to build the new center. She was a Girl Scout Troop Leader for three years and served as President of the Middletown South High School Parent Teachers Association for three years. She was a longtime member of Beacon Hill Country Club in Atlantic Highlands, NJ.
In the mid-eighties Marjorie and her husband, Robert, moved to Savannah and settled at The Landings on Skidaway Island. Robert died in 1993 and Marjorie married Joseph H. Reese, Jr. in 2001.
An accomplished golfer she was an active participant in The Landings’ golf community and was a member of The Landing Club. She was a member of Skidaway Island United Methodist Church and was serving as Chairman of the Board of Trustees during the time the church was constructed.
Marjorie continued her involvement in community service after moving to Savannah. She was active in fundraising for The 100 Club at Memorial University Medical Center. She was a member of the Savannah Symphony Women’s Guild and The Friends of Music where she chaired the Puppet Program. She and other ladies took their Puppet Show on the road, performing at all the elementary schools in Chatham County in an attempt to instill in the students a love and appreciation of music.
Surviving are her husband of fourteen years, Joseph H. Reese, Jr.; her children, Elizabeth Pursell, Victoria Pursell, and Robert Pursell; her grandchildren, Stephen Katz, Michael Katz, Grace Stribling-Hough, and Esme Stribling-Hough; the children of her husband, Linda Hurd, her husband, Edward and their children and Daniel Reese and his child; and her sister, Virginia Ela.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 26, 2014 at Skidaway Island United Methodist Church.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Hospice Savannah, Inc., P.O. Box 13190, Savannah, GA 31416 or to Skidaway Island United Methodist Church, 54 Diamond Causeway, Savannah, GA 31411.
I am so sorry for your loss death is a very hard thing to bear , But did you know that Bible holds out a hope for a resurrection for our love ones?Well it dose please read John 5:28,29 this scripture will give family comfort and hope. Again I am sorry for your loss.
- Mary cooper, Savannah, Ga
Loved your mother. So sorry to,hear of her passing. My condolences to all of you.
- Nancy Pursell Gentile, Rockaway Park, Ny
I worked with Marge for 15 years as she served as president of The Community YMCA board of directors. She ws a vibrant, energetic lady who was devoted and compassionate person who did much to improve the life of so many people in Monmouth county. We should all be so lucky to leave behind this legacy.I was the founder and executive director of the Yamily services unit of the YMCA.
- james j murray, howell, nj
I was so very saddened to learn of Marge's passing. I knew her for many years while living in Savannah and always looked forward to time spent together. She loved to share stories of her children and their precious families. She was a very giving and special person. I will miss not seeing her again. Prayers for all of you.
- Barbara Thompson, Roswell, Ga
Her accomplishments were many and to have had her as a friend was so very special. Will spend this evening reviewing old pictures and remembering our many great times together.
- Leon and Valerie Triberti, Tarpon springs , FL
Marge was a great golf friend for many years during our friendship in Savannah. As well as being a capable and inspiring volunteer, she was a kind and loyal friend. We shall remember her with love. She has left a legacy that should make her family proud. Ann Wilson
- Ann and Drake Wilson, Lorton, VA
I am so sorry for your loss death is a very hard thing to bear , But did you know that Bible holds out a hope for a resurrection for our love ones?Well it dose please read John 5:28,29 this scripture will give family comfort and hope. Again I am sorry for your loss.
- Mary cooper, Savannah, Ga
Loved your mother. So sorry to,hear of her passing. My condolences to all of you.
- Nancy Pursell Gentile, Rockaway Park, Ny
I worked with Marge for 15 years as she served as president of The Community YMCA board of directors. She ws a vibrant, energetic lady who was devoted and compassionate person who did much to improve the life of so many people in Monmouth county. We should all be so lucky to leave behind this legacy.I was the founder and executive director of the Yamily services unit of the YMCA.
- james j murray, howell, nj
I was so very saddened to learn of Marge's passing. I knew her for many years while living in Savannah and always looked forward to time spent together. She loved to share stories of her children and their precious families. She was a very giving and special person. I will miss not seeing her again. Prayers for all of you.
- Barbara Thompson, Roswell, Ga
Her accomplishments were many and to have had her as a friend was so very special. Will spend this evening reviewing old pictures and remembering our many great times together.
- Leon and Valerie Triberti, Tarpon springs , FL
Marge was a great golf friend for many years during our friendship in Savannah. As well as being a capable and inspiring volunteer, she was a kind and loyal friend. We shall remember her with love. She has left a legacy that should make her family proud. Ann Wilson
- Ann and Drake Wilson, Lorton, VA
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
