James Reeves

James “Jim” W. Reeves Sr., 91, of Benton Harbor, MI passed away Sunday, October 12, 2014 at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph. Jim was born April 15, 1923 in Tennessee to Charles & Daisy (Arthur) Reeves. He graduated in 1941 from Loretto High School. Upon graduating he moved to Memphis and served as one of the youngest supervisors at GM until he was drafted into the United States Army Air Corps in 1943.  He proudly served his country overseas in the China, Burma and India Theater during World War II. Jim was a superintendent at V-M (Voice of Music) in Benton Harbor for 28 years and retired from Gast Manufacturing after 15 years as Plant Manager.  He was a member of the Methodist Peace Temple in Benton Harbor for nearly 70 years.  He belonged to the Elks Lodge in St. Joseph, the Masons Lake Shore lodge 298, V-M Old Timers Club, and volunteered throughout his life with numerous organizations such as the Senior Center and the Soup Kitchen in Benton Harbor.  Jim enjoyed being active, traveling, taking walks in the park, being outside, and keeping up on current events. He was a well-liked and respected man by many and will be missed dearly by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife of 25 years Jo, his children Jim Jr. (Denise) Reeves of St. Joseph, Larry (Susie) Reeves of Schoolcraft, Rick (Molly) Reeves of Lawton, Deb (Doug) Ashley of Coloma and Lisa Reeves of Benton Harbor; 13 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded by his parents, his first wife Helen Reeves in 1987, brothers Charles Reeves and W.C. Reeves; sisters Reba Davis and Edna Johnson. A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held Saturday, November 29, 2014 1:00 P.M. until 2:00 P.M. at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd. St. Joseph.  A Luncheon will follow the gathering. Memorial contributions may be made to the Benton Harbor Soup Kitchen. Those wishing to sign the guestbook may do so online at www.starks-menchinger.com.