James Harlan "Buck" Reel

James Harlan “Buck” Reel, 88, of Marion, North Carolina, passed away Friday, July 15, 2022 at Willow Ridge Rehabilitation and Living Center surrounded by his loving family.

A lifelong resident of McDowell County, he was born on December 01, 1933 to the late Jonas Reel and Earlene Ward Reel.

Mr. Reel was a member of Sugar Hill Baptist Church. He loved his church family and held several church offices over the years. He retired from Drexel Furniture as a supervisor following 50 years of service. He was a great carpenter and could build anything. Buck was a very giving and passionate man in all he did. He was an avid beekeeper, and he provided bee supplies to beekeepers in surrounding counties.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a daughter, Linda Reel; grandson, Rocky Smith; six siblings, Frances Dobson, Margaret Hall, Lucille Bradley, Junior Reel, Asbury Reel, and Roland Reel; and a special nephew, Caleb Ayers.

He is survived by his wife, Margie Briggs Reel; three children, Nancy Boring (Conley), Anthony Reel (Mechelle), and Mickey Reel (Joanne); seven grandchildren, Tina, Andrew, Dustin, Melissa, Kevin, Travis, and Billy; eight great grandchildren; two great great grandchildren; three sisters, Annie Mae Compton, Laura Bradley, and Marie Bradley; and his special dog and friend, Marlie.

A funeral service will be held on Sunday, July 17, 2022 at 3:00 pm. at Sugar Hill Baptist Church with Pastor Michael Robinson officiating. The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.