Douglas Reese Allen, known to most as “Reese,” 71, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2026 surrounded by his loving family.

He is survived by his two sons, Joseph Charles Allen and Daniel Reese Allen; his sister, Beverly Allen; and his very close friend, Susan Yu. He was preceded in death by his parents, Merrill Lynn Allen and Elizabeth Suzanne Allen.

Reese was born on June 2, 1954, in New York City to Merrill Lynn Allen and Elizabeth Suzanne Allen. Following his parents’ divorce in 1959, he moved with his mother to Glenn Dale, Arizona, at the age of five. He attended Grace Lutheran School through the eighth grade before relocating to Chickasha, Oklahoma. There, he briefly attended Chickasha School and later Norman High School, graduating in 1972. After high school, Reese attended the University of Oklahoma. He was a proud member of the OU Men’s Basketball team for the 1973/1974 season. Reese went on to obtain his bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Oklahoma in 1976 and later received his law degree from Oklahoma City University in 1980.

Reese joined the Cub Scouts in 1962 and worked diligently to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. During those years, he participated in four high-adventure hikes in New Mexico and remained deeply involved in scouting throughout his life. He later served as chairman of the troop committee for his son’s troop at St. Mark’s Catholic Church, proudly supporting and encouraging his sons as they each earned their Eagle Scout rank.

A devoted member of the McFarlin United Methodist Church, Reese faithfully served as an usher, trustee, and Sunday school teacher. He contributed his time and leadership to numerous church committees and was one of the founding members and Board President of “Food and Shelter for Friends,” an organization established in the 1980s to provide food and essential support to those in need.

In 1980, Reese opened his private law practice, where he dedicated 45 years to serving his clients and community with integrity and compassion. Throughout his professional life, he remained deeply engaged in civic and community service. He served as secretary for the Democratic Party of the Cleveland County District for four years and was a longtime member of the South Oklahoma City Rotary Club, where he served as President. Reese also dedicated 12 years to the Wesley Foundation Board, eventually serving as its President.

Above all, Reese was a devoted father and loyal friend. He found great joy in hiking, backpacking, and traveling, and he especially loved cheering on his sons in their many athletic pursuits. A passionate Oklahoma Sooners fan, Reese rarely missed a game—attending football, softball, and basketball events with unwavering enthusiasm. In 49 years, he missed only five home football games, a testament to his enduring school spirit and dedication.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 2, 2026 at McFarlin United Methodist Church, located at 419 S. University Blvd. Norman, OK 73069. Viewing will take place at Tribute Memorial Care from 12:00 – 7:00 on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. Services are entrusted to Tribute Memorial Care.