Reese excelled in football for the Monarchs before receiving a full scholarship to play football at Alcorn A&M College (now Alcorn State University) where he was captain of the team and a four-year letterman. As a senior, Carlton won all-conference honors and was named a small college All-American in 1959.

While at Alcorn, Reese also played baseball, played in the concert band and managed the swing band. He graduated from Alcorn in 1960, then returned to Moss Point and served as Magnolia’s head football coach and Athletic Director. He also coached youth league baseball in Moss Point, and played the saxophone professionally.

He is honored in the Alcorn State Sports Hall of Fame, inducted at the same time as his son Michael Reese, both for their achievements in football.