Thomas L. Reber's Obituary
Thomas L. Reber, age 87, passed away peacefully on May 15th, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on September 29, 1938, in Taylorville, Illinois, to Gladys and Everette Reber.
Thomas shared 65 years of marriage with the love of his life, Rita M. Reber (Wells). Together they built a strong and loving family.
He is survived by his wife, Rita Reber; his children, Cherese A. McGaughey (Mike), Thomas L. Reber II (Kimber), and Chris Reber (Michelle); his 13 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren; his brother-in-law, Jim Wells; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved son, Derek James Reber; his grandson, Coleton Blake Reber; his great-grandson, Michael Warren McGaughey; his sisters, Dorothy Repscher and Mary Beck; and his brothers, Robert Reber and Jim Reber.
Thomas was a proud Marine and enjoyed many hobbies throughout his life, especially fishing, boating, and hunting. Of all his passions, gardening brought him the greatest joy. He took great pride in planting and caring for his beautiful flower gardens, which were often admired throughout the neighborhood, and he dearly loved working in his vegetable garden.
Thomas will be remembered for his strong work ethic, friendly personality, enthusiasm for life, and the many wonderful memories he created with his family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
A memorial mass will be held Friday, May 22nd, at 12:00 p.m. at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, located at 2800 Pine Tree Road, Longview, Texas 75604, and will be officiated by Msgr. Xavier Pappu.
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