Geneva D. Reeves

Geneva was born May 23, 1928 in Clinton, MS to Emma Wilson and Hoyt Davis.

She graduated from Mississippi College in Clinton, MS with a Bachelor of Arts Degree and then went on to earn a Master of Christian Music Degree from Southwest Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, TX.

In 1956, she began her career at Hinds Community College in Raymond, MS as a vocal instructor and assistant choir director. At Hinds, Geneva became known to all as Mama Reeves. She loved, accepted, and cared for each of her students like family and is remembered for her positive influence upon the hundreds of students she had the privilege to teach.

Professionally, Geneva continued to excel for many years at Hinds and went on to become the Chair of the Music Department and also earned the Ernestine Ferrell Award. After retirement in 1987, Geneva was given the status of Professor Emeritus.

Geneva was also a beloved member of the Raymond United Methodist Church, and served as the Volunteer Choral Director for many years.

She spent her final years as a resident of Riggs Manor. She cherished her friendships at Riggs, and the family is thankful for the wonderful care she received from the staff there and also from the devoted staff at Gentiva Hospice.

Geneva was a faithful wife, loving mother, devoted grandmother and great grandmother, unforgettable teacher, and loyal friend.

She is survived by her son James (J.) Leslie Reeves, Jr. (wife Wanda); daughter Geneva Nan Reeves; grandchildren Megan Reeves Logan (husband James), James Clinton Reeves (wife Victoria); great-grandchildren Ella Logan, Keaton Reeves, Sarah Logan, Embree Reeves, and Mae Reeves Logan; her sister Mary Lee Hite; many nieces and nephews; and her long-term friends Annette Stutzman, Barney McCann, and Kay Owens.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Leslie Reeves, Sr.

Visitation will be on Monday, June 23, 2014 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Lakewood Memorial Park, Jackson, MS and Tuesday, June 24, 2014 from 9:00-10:00 a.m. at Raymond United Methodist Church in Raymond, MS. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, June 24, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. at Raymond United Methodist Church in Raymond, MS. The graveside service and internment will be on Tuesday, June 24 at Lakewood Memorial Park, in Jackson immediately following the services.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Leslie and Geneva Reeves Choir Scholarship at Hinds Community College.