Joseph Reese was born July 7,1931 in Devereux, Georgia to the late Charlie and Elsie (Harper) Reese. He was the second eldest of 14 children. Around 1947, Joe moved to Atlanta, Ga. and in 1951, Joe joined the U.S. Army. After serving two years in the military, Joe was honorably discharged in January, 1953.

Joe moved to Washington, D.C. in 1953, and enrolled at Phelps Barbering School and eventually evolved into a trend-setting hair stylist at the Old Dunbar Hotel. Many of the stars that appeared and performed at the Howard Theatre had their hair done by Reese at the Old Dunbar Hotel including Aretha Franklin, Nat King Cole, James Brown, Diana Ross and many others. After his success there, Joe opened his own business, Reese's Barber Shop in the early sixties. Needless to say, he was very successful but decided to retire in 1998. He was the "Man" along the 14th,15th and U Street corridors where he worked for over 40 years, styling and cutting hair. He was a great resource and help to many people living in the Washington, DC area. Many cosmetologists in the business today were inspired by Joe.

Joe enjoyed a variety of music and artists, such as Jimmy Reed, James Brown, B.B. King, Muddy Waters, Johnny Taylor, Sam Cooke and many others. His dance moves were unforgettable and absolutely hilarious!! He was a very personable individual. He had a knack for making everyone feel relaxed and at ease. He always had a kind word for everyone. He is now able to join his Mother, Father and four brothers and especially his oldest brother, Governor, to sit back and relax for eternity and to play his favorite game of Bid Whist and then bid a "7 NO"...forever.

Joe leaves to mourn a son Wayne, a granddaughter and a great-grandson. On this day of his life's celebration, he also leaves to mourn five brothers. Ernest(Joyce), Clifford(Virginia-deceased), David(Louisiana), Robert(Arlene) and Rev. Matthew(Angie) and four sisters. Dorothy Reese-Newman(Paul), Annie-Reese Darius (Wallace), Georgia Reese-Harkless, Betty Reese-Handy(Walter), Late Brothers:Governor, Charles, Leroy, and Vansant Reese. A host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

So until we meet again, we cherish the memories of Joe Reese.