Eric C Reeves Jr.

Eric Reeves, Jr., age 87, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, leaving behind a legacy of faith, family, and master craftsmanship. Born on September 4, 1938, in Whiteville, North Carolina, he was the son of the late Eric Reeves, Sr. and Margaret Byrd Reeves. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 52 years, Mary Dell Reeves, and an infant brother, James Reeves.

A man of deep faith, Eric’s love for his church, Whispering Pines Baptist Church, was a cornerstone of his life. As a Deacon, he served his church community with a glad heart, embodying the values of kindness, humility, and devotion.

Equally defining was his passion for woodwork. With patient hands and a keen eye for detail, Eric could transform a simple piece of wood into something beautiful and lasting. His workshop was a place of creativity and peace, and the pieces he created will be cherished by his family for generations to come as a testament to his skill and patience.

Above all else, Eric loved his family. He was a devoted brother, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He possessed a wonderful gift for storytelling, and nothing brought him greater joy than gathering his grandchildren around him to share tales of the past, imparting wisdom, laughter, and love with every word.

He is survived by his loving siblings: his sister, Bonnie Bartley, and husband Virgil of Marietta, GA; his brothers, Harry Reeves and wife Susie of Castle Hayne, NC, and Jerry Reeves and wife Renee of Lake Placid, FL.

His memory will be forever cherished by his children: Debra "Debbie" Collins and husband David; Eric "Ric" Reeves and wife Tracy, all of Wilmington, NC; Eddie Reynolds and wife Angela of Tabor City, NC; and Anthony Reynolds of Wilmington, NC.

He was the proud grandfather of seven grandchildren: Johnny Collins (wife Jennifer), Erica Kuneyl (husband Donald), Meghan Juanarena (husband Brian), Angie Erickson (husband Kris), Rachel Harris (husband Josh), Leah Reynolds, and Jessica Mestiza (husband Pedro).

He was also blessed with fourteen great-grandchildren, who brought immense light to his later years: Milo Collins, Penelope Collins, Lillian LaQuay, Maisie LaQuay, Bair Kuneyl, Fisher Kuneyl, Thomas Juanarena, Gracie Juanarena, Zain Erickson, Riggs Erickson, Elayna Harris, Noah Harris, Amelia Mestiza, and Eliana Mestiza.

Eric’s life was a masterpiece of love, faith, and dedication. He will be deeply missed, but his stories will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

The funeral services will be held on Saturday May 23, 2026 at Whispering Pines Baptist Church, 6547 Carolina Beach Road. The family will receive friends and family at 10:00 a.m. and funeral services at 11:00 a.m. with burial to follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park Cemetery.

The family would like to thank Lower Cape Fear Life Care for their wonderful care and kindness. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Foundation, 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401 or online at lifecare.org.