Dottie Georgene "Jean" Reel

Dottie Georgene “Jean” Reel

Dottie Georgene “Jean” Reel, of Independence, Missouri, passed away Monday December 11, 2023, at the age of 81.

Jean was born on October 12, 1942, in Fort Scott, Kansas, the beloved daughter of George and Dorotha Mae (Babbitt) Mason. She was a proud 1960 graduate of William Chrisman High School. She briefly pursued a career as a Legal Secretary before dedicating her life to being a wife and mother. 

Jean found joy in the simple pleasures of life. An avid reader, she also shared a passion for baseball, with the Royals, Yankees, and A’s holding special places in her heart. Jean was a member of Bethel Baptist Church where she played as the organist and accompanist, and other churches for over 50 years. She had a deep faith that she instilled in others. 

Jean was an animal lover and she considered her cats as part of her family. Beyond all else she loved and adored her family; never once was there a time they questioned her love and support. Jean was caring, faithful and loving and will be dearly missed by all.

Jean is survived by her children, Dixie (Cameron) Cravens, Brenda (Kevin) Keith, Friend (Cheryl) Reel, Jr.; 9 grandchildren; and 16 great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Friend Reel, Sr., her parents, George and Dorotha Mason, and an infant sister, Dixie.

A visitation will be held Friday, December 15, 2023, at Carson Speaks Chapel, 1501 W. Lexington Ave., Independence, Missouri 64052. The family will receive guests between 1-2pm with the funeral service to follow at 2pm. Jean will be laid to rest following her service, interment we be held at Woodlawn Cemetery, Independence, Missouri, guests are welcome to meet at the cemetery at 3:30 pm for the committal service. 

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Crossroads Hospice, Bethel Baptist Church, Independence, MO, or the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network in Jean’s name. These thoughtful gestures will honor her memory and continue her legacy of love and compassion. Jean's caring spirit will be dearly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.