Celebrating the Life of Dr. Ted M. Reese

JANUARY 21, 1959 - MAY 8, 2024

Dr. Ted M. Reese, 65, beloved dentist and cherished member of the greater Indianapolis community, passed away peacefully at his North Carolina home on May 8, 2024. Dr. Reese was born to Virgil and Elizabeth Reese on Jan. 21, 1959, in Dayton, OH. He was the youngest of four children: the late Sandra (John) Kitchen, Denise (Ken) Palen, and Jody (Don) Durica.

From a young age, Dr. Reese demonstrated excellence in academics and a pursuit of knowledge that carried him far in life. By the age of 13, he was interested in a career in dentistry because it allowed him to apply his natural skill as a craftsman with his interest in biology and life sciences. He attended Anderson University for his undergraduate education, and before completing his bachelor’s degree, Dr. Reese was offered early acceptance into Indiana University School of Dentistry (IUSD), where he graduated with honors in 1984. He began his clinical career at Clinton Family Dental in Clinton, IN, focusing on orthodontics and craniofacial pain. In 1987, Dr. Reese relocated to the Indianapolis area, assuming the practice of Dr. Jordan Scull, a former instructor at IUSD. The practice would come to be known as the Indianapolis Center for Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Reese was awarded Fellow of the Midwest Implant Institute (1989), the Academy of General Dentistry (1990), the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (1995), Master of the Academy of General Dentistry (1995), and Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant Dentistry (2012). In 2008, Dr. Reese received the Life Long Learning and Service Recognition (LLSR) from the Academy of General Dentistry. Additionally, Dr. Reese served on the National Dental Education Council for the Academy of General Dentistry (2006-09), as Trustee for Indiana and Ohio to the National Board of the Academy of General Dentistry (2011-14), and was appointed to the Indiana State Board of Dental Examiners by Gov. Mike Pence (2015).

For 37 years, Dr. Reese built and maintained a successful dental practice focused on comprehensive care, integrative dentistry, and modern advancements in implant and cosmetic dentistry, holistic medicine, orthodontics, IV sedation, craniofacial/TMJ pain management, and minimally invasive approaches. He was a mentor and teacher to countless students, young professionals, and peers. His patients often spoke of his kindness, patience, and comforting nature. Dr. Reese will be remembered by many through the beautiful smiles he created and the confidence he gave to his patients.

Beyond his professional career, Dr. Reese was deeply committed to his faith in God, his family, and his community. He participated in health education programs, supported numerous charitable organizations and missions, and led countless medical mission trips to underserved areas of the world. Dr. Reese's love for life was displayed in his many hobbies and interests. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, motorcyclist, and traveler. He did not miss an opportunity to participate in local sports events, concerts, or theater performances. More than partaking in his hobbies or attending these events, he enjoyed sharing them with his family and friends.

Dr. Reese is survived by his wife, Joy N. Reese; five children, Rachel (Evan) Thiemann, Ann (Luke) Ewing, Luke Geddie, Matthew (Kaylyn) Geddie, and Grant (Melissa) Geddie; siblings Denise Palen and Jody Durica; and five grandchildren. He is also remembered fondly by nieces and nephews and a wide circle of friends and colleagues.