Zack Reese – Staunton Fire Department – 08-28-25
We are deeply saddened to hear about the sudden passing of the son of Steve Reese and Mandi McComas. Our hearts go out to his family and friends during this incredibly difficut time of loss.
Zack Reese, son of Steve Reese (Fairfield VRS and VAFR District 1) was killed in a motor vehicle crash.
On behalf of the President, Officers and members of the Virginia Association of First Responders – our heartfelt condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to Steve Reese, Mandi McComas, all of Zack’s family and members of Staunton Fire Department.
OBITUARY:
Zachary Wayne “Zack” Reese of Raphine passed away on Wednesday, August 27, 2025.
Zack was born in Lexington, VA, on October 25, 1994, to Steven Wayne Reese and Mandi Hartless McComas.
He attended Raphine Christian Church, where he witnessed his children’s baptisms—a moment of deep pride and faith for him. Zack was a proud firefighter with the City of Staunton Fire Department, and before joining Staunton, he dedicated ten years of service to Augusta County Fire and Rescue. During his years as a career firefighter, Zack built lasting bonds and found a true sense of brotherhood and sisterhood among his fellow firefighters, always demonstrating unwavering dedication and love for the department and the community he served.
Zack was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Patsy (Hipes) Reese, and his maternal grandparents, Guy Day Hartless Jr. and Linda Mull Hartless.
Surviving, in addition to his parents and his wife of nine years, Chelsea, and his greatest joys—his beloved children, Braylee Day Reese and Clay Wayne Reese. He is also survived by his stepfather, William E. McComas; his brother, Cody W. Harris (September); and his twin sisters, Sadie P. McComas and Sophie L. McComas, all of Raphine.; his paternal grandfather, James “Wayne” Reese of Greenville; step-grandmother, Jeanne P. Shannon; step-grandfather, William Lane McComas (Pat) and his cousins Justin and Michael David, with whom he spent the first 15 years of his life growing up, along with numerous other aunts, uncles, and, cousins.
Zack became a father at the young age of 17, and this early responsibility molded him into the remarkable man he became. The arrival of Braylee and Clay, and the blessing of Chelsea joining the family, brought immense joy and purpose to his life. He was a devoted and loving father, cherishing every moment with his children and always striving to give them his very best.
From a young age, Zack was immersed in the fire service, inspired by his dad Steve’s commitment as a volunteer at the Raphine Fire Company, and later faithfully followed in his stepdad Will’s footsteps, embracing Will’s deep love for the City of Staunton Fire Department after Will retired.
Even though he had only been with the Department for nine months, he quickly built strong bonds, earning the respect and affection of his fellow firefighters through his hard work and dedication. He poured his heart into farming, working side by side with Will, always eager to lend a hand and learn more about the land. Always ready to help others in need, Zack embodied the values of courage, compassion, and generosity in everything he did.
Family was at the center of Zack’s world. He treasured Sunday suppers at his Momma’s house, where laughter and stories filled the air. He shared a special bond with his brother Cody and adored his little sisters, Sadie and Sophie. His love for his dad was evident, especially in his enthusiasm for trains—a passion he was always eager to expand upon. Riding his motorcycle was his sense of freedom and joy, a reflection of his adventurous spirit and love for life. He died doing what he loved, and though he was strong and muscular, it was his gentle soul and caring heart that truly defined him, leaving a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory.
A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at Raphine Christian Church by Rev. John Ward and Mr. Greg Czerniak. Burial will follow in Mt. Carmel Presbyterian Church Cemetery.
If anyone would like to contribute to a memorial trust fund for his children, Braylee and Clay Reese, donations may be made at c/o City National Bank, 2134 Raphine Road, Raphine, VA.
Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory, 230 Frontier Drive, Staunton, is in charge of his arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.coffmanfuneralhome.net.
Brian Bilheimer, VAFR Training Coordinator
1974-2025
Click Here to View a You Tube Video of “Brian Memories”
On Friday, May 16, 2025 VAFR Training Coordinator Brian Bilheimer suffered a heart attack and passed away. This sudden loss of someone so valuable to the VAFR, its members and staff has been substantial. As most of you know, his wife, Lisa is also employed by the VAFR.
You can send cards and letters to Lisa Bilheimer and Family, 17595 Circuit Ridge Drive, Beverdam, VA 23015
The family has requested no visitors at this time.
Please keep Lisa and her family in your thoughts and prayers.
Obituary for Brian Robert Bilheimer
Brian Robert Bilheimer, 51, of Hanover passed away May 16, 2025. He is survived by his wife, Lisa Bilheimer; daughter, Julia Bilheimer; four sons, Spencer, Austin, Mitchell and Jordan; grandchildren, Isaiah, Olivia, Callie, Rey, Nick and Cailie. Brian is also survived by his beloved parents, Jack and Alexis Bilheimer; brother, Michael Bilheimer; his in-laws, Arthur and Lucy Williamson; and lastly his three dogs, Cooper, Lola and George; and cat, Kurama.
Brian was a retired Army Green Beret who held a deep love and pride for his country. He loved history and especially enjoyed walking with Lisa alongside the James River, listening to the historic recording of how General Daniel Butterfield composed TAPS at Berkeley Plantation. He would always stop and salute the flag while TAPS played. There wasn’t very much time when he and Lisa weren’t together. They were true partners in every sense of the word; working, relaxing, playing or parenting, it was all done together.
Brian enjoyed afternoons fishing, and backyard games like cornhole, but time spent with family was his favorite. He was extremely loyal and fiercely protective of his family. He loved deeply and was deeply loved in return. The loss of such an incredible man is profound, but the legacy he leaves behind will keep the love he shared alive.
A memorial service to celebrate Brian’s life will be held 12 noon, Saturday, May 31, 2025 at Vincent Funeral Home, 9923 Pocahontas Trail, Providence Forge, VA 23140.