Kenneth Jimmy Reeves

Born on October 8, 1949, Jimmy was a devoted son, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. From a young age, Jimmy demonstrated a passion for automotive work, beginning his career in auto service in his early teens. His dedication and skill led him to become the proud owner of Reeves Automotive, where he took great pride in his work and served his community with integrity.

In 1979, Jimmy expanded his impact by beginning a teaching career at John Pope Eden Career Technical Center. There, he found great joy in sharing his knowledge and mentoring students in the field he loved. Watching his students grow and succeed was a passion he held close to his heart. A true jack-of-all-trades, Jimmy believed deeply in doing every job with excellence and pride.

Jimmy enlisted in the United States Army in January 1969. During his six years of service, he achieved the distinguished status of an Airborne Green Beret—an accomplishment that commands reverence and respect. He served as a combat engineer with a specialization in demolitions and was a member of the 82nd Airborne Division. Jimmy also completed the rigorous training required to become an Army Ranger and ultimately joined the U.S. Army Special Forces. He served on both active duty and in the Army Reserve until January 1975, concluding his military career with the final rank of Staff Sergeant (E-6).

Jimmy found peace and happiness near the water. He especially loved his home on Canoe Creek, where he spent countless hours sitting on the porch with his wife Nancy, enjoying the lake and watching the sunset. In the 1990s, he participated in—and won—numerous fishing competitions with his partner, cousin, and friend, James “Wormy” Thompson. Later in life, after semi-retirement, he enjoyed biking and spending time in Foley, Alabama. He was proud to have a vacation home near the beach, where he and Nancy created lasting memories with friends and family.

Jimmy was a man of deep faith and spiritual strength. He dedicated many years to teaching Sunday School at Gum Springs Baptist Church and, more recently, at Rainbow City Methodist Church. He especially loved studying and sharing the stories of the Old Testament, and he poured countless hours into preparing meaningful lessons for his classes.

Jimmy is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy Granum Reeves; his daughter, Katie Reeves Carter (Cory); and his cherished grandchildren, Kennedy Michelle Carter and Cory Reeves Carter. He is also survived by his chosen sons, Kevin Vezertzis (Holly) and Curt Vezertzis (Brigitte), as well as his chosen grandsons—Luke, James, and Granum Vezertzis.

Additionally, he is survived by his sisters-in-law, Sandra Reeves and Karen Means (Steve); his brother-in-law, Jim Granum (Ellen); and his beloved nieces—Deborah Banks, Darlene Davis, and Donna Henderson—whom he considered bonus daughters.

He was dearly loved by many cousins, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Chester Doyle Reeves and Grace Melinda Reeves; his brother, Chester Allen Reeves; and his brother-in-law, Doug Granum.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, May 17, at Rainbow City Methodist Church from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m., with a memorial service commencing at 11:00 a.m.

In honoring Jimmy’s legacy, we remember a life rooted in his faith, generosity, and dedication to others. He will be deeply missed, but his impact and memory will live on in the lives he touched.

A special thank you to Barry Hill, Dave Brackett, Alan and Adrian Ward, Dr. Michael Wood, and the nurses and staff of Riverview Medical Center for their care and compassion.

And in the words of Jimmy: “Consider it all joy.”

*In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Rainbow City Methodist Church.