As we celebrate the compassionate life of Robert Corey Reel, we reflect on a journey filled with love, kindness, and a deep unyielding spirit.
He was born on March 28, 1990, in Washington, the cherished son of Eileen Reel Jennemann of St. Louis and Jerry Spradling of the Lake of the Ozarks.
He brought warmth and joy to all who knew him.
Corey was a graduate of Mehlville High School in 2008. He excelled academically and athletically, particularly in football and musical arts. His talents extended beyond the classroom as he was a passionate artist and writer, and an active volunteer. Corey’s service was evident in his efforts to build houses after Hurricane Katrina and his work with Urban City Services. He was also looking forward to starting his training with the carpenters union.
Corey was an active member of various clubs, including the church drama, basketball and soccer teams, and contributed his voice to the church choir. His leadership extended to the teen church fellowship group and the Bimini House in Los Angeles, where he was chosen as a leader among residents. His involvement in the Home Boys program in Los Angeles was a testament to his dedication to making a difference.
Corey was a man of profound kindness and empathy, never hesitating to share what he had with others. His love for the ocean, camping and spending time with his mother were cherished pastimes. Corey had an innnate ability to see the good in people, offering a non-judgmental and spiritually holistic presence to those in his life. His heart of gold was evident in his selfless love for his family, especially his nieces, sister and mother, who saw him as their pride and joy.
Corey’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors at SLU Hospital for their care and dedication. Eileen, Corey’s, mother, wishes to thank the Trail of Truth and other opioid recovery organizations for their support and assistance. A special thank you goes out to the Textwich mothers whom he loved dearly as his own moms.
Corey was preceded in death by grandfathers, Robert Reel and Earl Merk; great-grandparents,Virgil and Catherine Dogett, Walter and Loretta Reel and Dorothy Merk; along with numerous other family members and friends.
Family was the cornerstone of his life. Corey is survived by mother, Eileen Jennemann of St. Louis; father, Jerry Spradling of Lake of the Ozarks; sister, Kirsten Kinsley of Marissa, Ill.; brother, Travis Spradling and wife Samantha of Owensville; nieces, Olivia Rose Walker and Kenna Maire Jordan; grandmothers, Shirley Merk Union and Carolyn Reel of Edina; Godfather, Uncle Robert Reel of St. Louis; and other beloved uncles, aunts, cousins and friends.
A celebration of life that will honor Corey’s legacy will be announced at a later date.
Memorial contributions suggested to Urban City Services of St. Louis or The National Trail of Truth of New York and Washingon, D.C., two organizations close to his mother’s heart.
Corey leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion and an indomitable spirit that will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him. His life was a testament to the power of kindness and the strength of family, and he will forever be remembered as the light in the lives of those he touched.
