On Sunday, February 26, 2023, Wilson Charley Reaves, Sr., 87 years old of Madison Heights was called home to be with the Lord. On April 19, 1935, Dennis Reaves and Olivia Thomas Reaves of Madison Heights, Virginia were blessed with a handsome baby boy. Wilson was baptized, and a faithful member at Sun Rising Church in Monroe, Virginia.
Wilson worked for twenty-five (25) years at Lynchburg Foundry Inc. Later, after retiring he decided to start a small lawn care business. Wilson was no stranger in the neighborhood, everyone respected and loved “hump.” Even when he met a stranger. He would always greet with a smile.
Wilson was a loving and kind husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle. He married his high school sweet-heart, Margaret Fleshman Reaves, 69 years ago. Until this day Wilson would let you know that Margaret was “His Wife.” They shared life together to build a special bond never too be broken…”Til Death Do Us Part!”
Wilson is survived by his devoted wife, Margaret Reaves. Who he dearly loved. Four sons, Wilson Reaves Jr., Lynchburg, Mike Reaves (Roberta) Madison Heights, Warren Reaves, Madison Heights and Bruce Reaves, North Carolina. Three daughters Faye Hicks (Sam) Lynchburg, Rev. Jearlene Dixon (Matthew) Madison Heights, Sandra Christian (Reginald) Madison Heights; plus 13 grandchildren (3 decreased) and 31 great-grandchildren, his nephews and nieces. (Two 2) sisters Frances Liggon, Odell Wayne and Jearlene Allen (decreased) all of Madison Heights. Wilson loved his family. He was deeply touched by the respect and love shown by his children and grandchildren.
Wilson’s family knew him only as a kind and mild-mannered man. Who loved to have fun. He lived a good life. On Sunday’s he would starting getting ready for church on Saturday night. He never wanted to be late. It never took a lot to please Wilson. Self-satisfaction was his at the top of his list. He was a calm and stress-free person. There is one thing that we know about Wilson Reaves, he loved to dress, style, and impress with a beautiful smile. You could not tell him that he wasn’t sharp when he stepped out in a suit and tie. But most of all he enjoyed spending quality time with his wife and children. On Sunday’s he looked forward to our “family gatherings.” He loved how his children shared conversations and laughter that made special memories. His encouraging words are never to be forgotten. His favorite words were; “Don’t take any wooden nickles.” And the other encouraging words that he used a lot were…”Just keep on Living.”
A visitation will be held Wednesday, March 1, 2023, from 6 until 7 p.m. at Tharp Funeral Home, Madison Heights. A celebration of life will be held Thursday, March 2, 2023, at 1 p.m. at Scott Zion Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Scott Zion Baptist Church Cemetery.
Tharp Funeral Home, Madison Heights is assisting the family.