Linda Reese

Linda W. Reese

1946-2024

Linda Williams Reese, age 77, of Norman, Oklahoma, passed away on Wednesday August 14, 2024. She was born on October 4, 1946, in Norman, the daughter of Billie and Edith Williams. She married her high school sweetheart, John “Bill” Reese, on June 15, 1968.

Linda graduated from Norman High School and received a baccalaureate degree from the University of Oklahoma and a master’s degree from the University of Kansas. After Bill’s service in the Army, she embarked on a career as an educator, eventually returning to Norman to earn a doctorate in History. Following her graduation in 1991, she taught at the University of Oklahoma and East Central University where she was a published author and historian who received numerous accolades for her significant scholarly contributions to women’s history, the West, and Oklahoma. Amongst her works, she is best known for writing Women in Oklahoma, 1890-1920 and Trail Sisters, Freedwomen in Indian Territory, 1850-1890.

She was a wonderful wife and mother, and deeply loved by her family and friends. Her faith and her family were foundational to her. Through all of life’s challenges, she worked unselfishly and tirelessly to maintain a stable, loving environment for her family.

Linda is survived by her 3 children, Brian Reese, Susan Oliver and husband Dean, Jim Reese and wife Brandy; her sisters, Rebecca Marie Williams, Jerri Ann Warden; and 10 grandchildren, Aaron, Allen, Megan, Ryan, Aubree, Ethan, Ainsley, Aiden, Zayne, and Addison. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, her parents, and brother, Jack Lancaster.

Funeral Services will be held at St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church, 1801 W. Brooks, Norman, Oklahoma 73069 at 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 24, 2024.

11 thoughts on “Linda Reese”

  1. Deborah Matayabas, LD13 Chair

    Arizona LD13 sends Brandy, Jim and the Reese family its deepest condolences, with hopes for strength and offers of support during this challenging period.
    Deborah Matayabas
    LD13 Chair

  2. Carol Ann Maas

    To Linda family, my deepest sympathies on your loss. I didn’t know Linda, but wish I did. She was an amazing accomplished woman and left a wonderful legacy for her children and grandchildren to love and honor. My time heal your broken hearts and bring smiles to your face when you think of her.

  3. Sue schrems

    All through graduate school and after, Linda and I were best friends. I miss her dearly…..my thoughts are with the family…..sue schrems

  4. Janet Kiefer

    Dear Brandy,
    What a wonderful person, wife, mother, and grandmother all of you had the privilege of knowing. May your special and fond memories of her warm your hearts and comfort your souls. Our warmest condolences go out to you and your whole family.
    With much love,
    Janet and Peter Kiefer

  5. Gunlög Fur

    I can’t begin to express how much Linda meant to me when I came to Oklahoma as a graduate student in 1985. She took me under her wings, introduced me to Norman, and became a dear friend. Over the years we’ve kept in touch and visited in Norman and in Ada when I’ve been back to OK. She leaves a warm and light memory behind. I hope that is some consolation to her children.

  6. Connie Ellison

    I deeply respected Linda’s beautiful mind. During my time in graduate school, Linda encouraged me tirelessly. I haven’t seen her in years, but I’ve thought of her often. I shall always cherish our friendship. Linda was a beautiful soul. I send condolences to her children, grandchildren, and other family members.

  7. Alvin Turner

    When I first met Linda I was suspicious, questioning if anyone could be as nice as she seemed. I soon learned that she was real and also an outstanding teacher and scholar.

  8. Helen Hughes

    So sorry to hear the sad news. Sending warm wishes and condolences to Brandy and her family.

  9. Mary Van Deman

    To Brandy and the Reese Family,
    My heart goes out to you in your time of grief. May your memories give you comfort.
    With deepest sympathy

  10. Garold Mills

    I was not aware of her passing. I worked with her at OU and ECU. Loved her very much. Worked on her not very long ago! Very Sad!

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