Lisa Dawn Reese

Lisa Killian Reese, 61, of Statesville, N.C. passed away on October 11, 2026, at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital.

Lisa was born August 14, 1965, in Catawba County, N.C., to Melvin and Mary Jane Killian. She graduated from Lenoir Rhyne University with her Bachelor's degree in Education. She later pursued a Master's degree at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and was employed as a librarian at Statesville High School and Union Grove Elementary School. Lisa married her high school sweetheart, David, on August 9, 1986.

She was preceded in death by her husband, David Reese, mother, Mary Jane Killian, and brother, Melvin Killian Jr..

Surviving family include her son, Dawson Reese (Madison); her father, Melvin Killian; two brothers, Nathan Killian and Kyle Killian (Elaine); nephews Alex Killian, Kade, Kohen, and Kannon Killian; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Lisa was a vibrant, loving soul whose presence brought joy, laughter, and light to the lives of those fortunate enough to know her. Even through the most difficult seasons of her life, she continued to face the world with a spirit that could not easily be dimmed. Her strength, resilience, and ability to find joy despite the challenges she faced were a testament to the incredible person she was. Above all, Lisa loved deeply. She cared immensely for her family and friends, and she wanted the people in her life to know just how much they meant to her. Lisa also had a special place in her heart for the natural world, particularly sea turtle and hippopotamus conservation. Her concern for these remarkable creatures reflected the compassion she carried beyond her own circle of family and friends. While she will be profoundly missed here on earth, there is comfort in knowing that she is reunited with David and Mary Jane, resting peacefully in heaven, free from pain. Her time here may have ended, but the love she shared will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

A Funeral Service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Western Avenue Baptist Church in Statesville, N.C.. The family will receive friends an hour before the service at the church. Rev. Jeff Spry, Pastor of Western Avenue Baptist Church, will officiate the service on behalf of the family. We extend our many thanks for everyone’s support during these very difficult and trying times.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center. https://www.seaturtlehospital.org/