Commodore “Reese” Southern Obituary
COURTESY OBITUARY
In Loving Memory of Reese Southern
May 17, 1926 – February 21, 2026
Commodore Maurice “Reese” Southern, 99, of Portales, NM, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on February 21, 2026, just a few months shy of his 100th birthday.
Reese was born on May 17, 1926, in Alex, Oklahoma, to David and Laura Southern. One of seven children, he was raised with the values of hard work and perseverance that guided him throughout his life.
He proudly served his country in the United States Navy as a Seaman First Class during World War II and received the Victory Medal for his service. After returning home, he worked as a civilian at Cannon Air Force Base, spent many years traveling the country as a truck driver, and later worked in the farming industry making an honest living.
Reese enjoyed fishing, reading, restoring and trading cars. He had a deep appreciation for simple things and a curiosity about life, often saying, “I’ll try anything twice.” He was known for his infectious laugh, generous spirit, and willingness to help others without hesitation.
On April 29, 2024, Reese gave his heart to Jesus.
He is survived by his daughter, Judy M. (Dale) Varnell; his grandchildren, Jeremy (Sheila) Southern, Mandy (Phillip) Encinias, and Ashley (Chris) Sisneros; and his great-grandchildren, Adriana, Kyla, Logan Southern; Faith Gutierrez and Nikolas Encinias; Derrick Sisneros and Aubriella Valle; and one great-great-grandson Oxten Mata. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews. He loved his family dearly and was proud of each of them.
A celebration of life will be held at The Well, 311 S Main Ave, Portales, New Mexico, on May 16, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. (This would have been his 100th birthday weekend!)
Reese lived life on his own terms — lighthearted, carefree, and always ready for the next adventure. His laughter came easily, his love for his family ran deep, and he reminded everyone that joy is a choice and life is better when you don’t take it too seriously.
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