Dr. James "Jim Bob" Reeves

Upper Crabtree community, Dr. James Robert Reeves, 76, passed away on Monday, February 13, 2023, at Silver Bluff.

A native of Haywood County, Jim Bob  was the son of M.B. and Nan Liner Reeves.  He was Salutatorian of the class of 1964 at Crabtree-Iron Duff School.  He received an Associate’s Degree from Brevard College in 1966, a Bachelor’s Degree from Scarritt College in 1968, a Master of Divinity from Duke University in 1971, and a Doctorate of Ministry from Drew University in 1986.  During his 41-year career with the WNCC, he served as minister to 11 different churches.

Jim Bob also served as Director for the School for the Licensing of Local Pastors for 25 years.  Because of his love for music, he either sang or directed church choirs throughout his ministry.  Jim Bob will be remembered as an honorable man; loving husband and father; and a humble, selfless pastor.  He shared a passion for gardening, furniture refinishing, family genealogy, Star Trek, and sweets and was an active member at Long’s Chapel United Methodist Church.  He also wore a badge of honor as the father of three girls.

Jim Bob is survived by his wife of 44 years, Robin Alexander Reeves; three daughters, Anna Reeves Richardson (Michael Murphy), Sarah Reeves, Nan Reeves Mann (Michael); two sisters, Beth Ferguson (David) and Pam Anderson (Steve); one brother, David Reeves (Della); three grandchildren, Heggie Richardson, Archie Mann, and Reeves Mann.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Long’s Chapel United Methodist Church, 133 Old Clyde Road, Waynesville, NC 28785; Special Olympics of NC, PO Box 25968, Raleigh, NC 27611, or Dravet Syndrome Foundation, PO Box 3026, Cherryhill, NJ 08034.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, February 20, 2023, at Long’s Chapel United Methodist Church with the Reverend Chris Westmoreland officiating.  The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. prior to the service.  Following the service, there will be a “Sampler Social” in the Community Room.

The care of Dr. Reeves has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville