Rogereale M. "Reese" Howard

UTICA – Rogereale M. “Reese” Howard, age 39, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, July 4, 2025. Born in Utica on August 6, 1985, Rogereale was the son of Robert Evans, Sr. and Theresa Howard. He attended Utica City Schools, including T.R. Proctor High School. From a young age, Reese was employed in the dietary department as a technician at the Oneida Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing (formerly the Loretto, then Focus Rehabilitation and Nursing Center) for over 17 years. He will be deeply missed by his co-workers and patients alike, especially for the positive impact he had by blessing them with his overall good spirit and encouragement. Reese was humorous, charismatic, loyal, and dependable. He was unapologetically honest—always speaking his mind, whether others agreed or not—and that honesty was part of what made him truly unforgettable. Reese enjoyed dancing to any genre of music—especially Reggae—or cooking one of his unforgettable dishes, like chicken dinners with mac and cheese, yams, and potato salad. He proudly announced on his Facebook when he would be making meals, often receiving pre-orders and selling out quickly. He took great pride in his culinary talents, which were lovingly passed down from his mother and grandparents. Reese always took responsibility for making sure everyone had a great time. He was a devoted son and sibling, always showing love, concern, and affection. Additionally, people admired his talent for decorating and coordinating a room’s fixtures—always clean, stylish, and meticulously arranged. The same attention to detail extended to his attire; he had a deep appreciation for fashion and always ensured his appearance was impeccable. At his core, Reese held a promise close to his heart — to treasure and find joy in serving others. He held strong personal beliefs, and whenever he sought guidance from the Lord, he knew to turn inward—placing it in both his heart and his mind. Reese coined the phrase “that part,” while affirming or disaffirming his feelings on a given situation- this would result in much laughter from those around him due to his candidness. Reese is survived by his mother, Theresa Howard and Anthony Hill; father, Robert Evans, Sr.; his siblings and their loves, Janelle “Nelly” Williams, Robert “Darnell” Howard, Deana and her husband Rielik Hammett, Shamika Sanders, Reginald Sanders, Tanisha and her husband Walter Blackshear, Jr., Willie Smith, Robert Evans, Jr. and his wife Pooja, Dymonik Smith, Marcus Smith, J’Von Evans, Ny’Rhobia Evans, Kycoia Vereen, Valestine Christie, Diamonte Evans, Kiara Evans, India Evans, Quincy Evans, Jonathan Howard, and Cassandra Howard.; and stepsisters, Tykeisha Spratt, and Destiny Rudolph. Though Reese did not have any children, he considered his precious pit bulls, Polo and Couture, as his pet babies- they loved him and he joyfully reciprocated that love. He also leaves to cherish his memory a great number of beloved nieces, nephews, a great-niece, a bountiful number of cousins; his AUNTIE Canya; godmother, Felecia Grenne (James); and many aunts, uncles, and loved ones. He was a devoted godfather to Rielik Hammet, Jr., Zarielle Hammett, Iyliek (Woot) Hammett, and Ny'Iasha Ruffin, always making sure they were straight! Reese’s best friend was Chante Hawkins, who was gifted and reliable, like him – she played an important role, enduring many years with him. He was also blessed with friends who he loved as if they were siblings, Chaqueen Blackshear, Toniece Howard, Jesse Brown, Sha’Nita Mayo, Tiffany Boykin, and Nicole Gaston. He was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, James and Mary Howard; paternal grandparents, Sam Evans, Sr. and Sandra (Green) Evans; and a host of aunts and uncles. The family offers their sincere gratitude for the kindness, dedication, and unwavering support extended by others, which provided profound comfort during this time of sorrow. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at St. Matthew’s Temple COGIC, 110 Washington St. Rogereale’s Home Going Service and Celebration of Life will commence at 12:00 p.m. at the church. Interment will take place in Forest Hill Cemetery.

Rogereale M. "Reese" Howard

August 6, 1985 - July 4, 2025