This talented blues and jazz musician grew up in Itmann (Wyoming County). Born in 1924, he learned to play guitar, piano, and more by listening to radio shows and local musicians.

He worked in coal mines, served in World War II, and played music across the state. Reese was also a teacher and performer at music workshops, sharing traditional blues with new generations at fairs and festivals.

He was inducted into the West Virginia Music Hall of Fame in 2009.