Johnny James Reaves Sr.

Johnny James Reaves, Sr., 92 years old, was called to be with his Lord and Savior on February 11, 2017 where he resided in Jacksonville, Florida. John was born on May 10, 1924 in Rhine, Georgia, the son of Nettie Alma Hampton and William Ander Reaves. John was one of the youngest engineers at age 17 with Seaboard Airline Railroad in Georgia. He served in the Army as a Marksman, then moved to Jacksonville in the early 40’s to work with his brother and father in roofing, which led him to become a licensed Roofer and General Contractor. He was an accomplished business owner being President of R.B. Gay Construction, Inc. and Reaves Roofing, Inc. John was a godly man, served his church as a deacon in leadership for over sixty years, and was a pillar of strength for his family of five generations. He was a member of Southside Baptist Church. Over the years he was involved in many organizations, such as President of North East Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association, The Association of General Contractors, NE Florida Builders Association, Northside Businessmen’s Association, Associated Builders and Contractors, Better Business Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, Morocco Temple of Shriners, Royal Arch Masons #48, Riverview Lodge #306, Civitan Club of South Jacksonville, former Trustee of The Baptist Home for Children, and Chairman of the Board of Lake Forest Baptist Christian School.

He was preceded in death by his parents, along with his brother, William “Henry” Reaves; sister, Faye Reaves McNett; son, Johnny James Reaves, Jr.; grandson, William “Shane” Reaves; and niece, Madoline “Kandice” McNett. Surviving him is his wife, Joyce H. Reaves; his children, Marilyn Reaves Davis, Steven Ander Reaves (Rita), William Alan Reaves (Luvinie), Lori Reaves Schaefer (Bill), James Randall Reaves (Heather), and Robyn Ashley Reaves; also, 27 grandchildren along with their 10 spouses, 33 great grandchildren with their 3 spouses, and 5 great-great grandchildren, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins who will all miss him dearly.

The Funeral Service will be held at 11am on Thursday, February 16, 2017 with the family receiving friends at 9:30am prior to service at Southside Baptist Church 1435 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville, Florida 32207, with Pastor John Harmeling as Officiant, followed by a committal service in Greenlawn Cemetery.

Please Sign the guestbook at www.hardagegiddensoaklawnchapel.com

HARDAGE-GIDDENS, THE OAKLAWN CHAPEL, 4801 San Jose Blvd is serving the family.