Jerrelle "JD" Reeves Sr.

Obituary for Jerrelle "JD" Delroy Reeves Sr.

Jerrelle "JD" Delroy Reeves Sr., 86, of Dayton, Texas, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2025, surrounded by family. Born on March 3, 1938, in Mont Belvieu, TX, JD led a full and rich life, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of love, laughter, and hard work.

JD was the son of Ellis "Monk" Willard Reeves and Willie Mae Dugat. JD held his dad to a very high regard and was very proud to be his son. He was married to his beloved wife, Martha Ann Moore Reeves, for 69 years, a true testament to their enduring love and commitment. Together, they shared countless memories, including road trips, Mardi Gras celebrations, and vacations to New Braunfels. JD’s love for his family extended far beyond his wife, as he cherished the time spent with his children and grandchildren.

JD was a dedicated member and deacon of South Dayton Baptist Church, where he found joy in his faith and was actively involved in the church community. He worked as a crane operator for Brown and Root for 35 years, a career that he took great pride in, passing down the company’s ring to his son as a symbol of his hard work and dedication.

Known for his warm and outgoing nature, JD never met a stranger and loved striking up conversations with anyone he encountered. A gifted storyteller, he brought joy and laughter to all those around him with his jokes and creative nicknames. JD’s love for the outdoors was well-known—he enjoyed camping at the Trinity River, fishing, and hunting at his camp house on the marsh. He was also an avid fan of monster truck shows, often bringing the kids along to experience the excitement.

Since 1974, JD called Dayton home, although he had previously lived in Old River, TX. He took great pride in his roots, often reminiscing about the many experiences and memories he gathered over the years.

JD was preceded in death by his parents, his children: Debra Reeves, Tadpole Reeves, Tommy Reeves, Cathy Brown, Clinney Reeves, Kenneth Reeves, and James Ray Reeves; his sisters: Jeanette Hatcher, JoAnne Thornton, Willa Dean Parker, and Janice Barton; and his in-laws, Mr. and Mrs. Cecil Moore.

He is survived by his wife, Martha Ann Reeves; his sisters, Jackie Reeves of Dayton, Theresa Davis of Jasper, and brother Donny Reeves and wife Linda of Seguin; children Linda Noe of Dayton, Charlie Reeves and wife Tina of Anahuac, Anita Brown and husband Jerry of Dayton, Patricia Reeves of Dayton, Jason Reeves and wife Ashley of Kilgore, Cindy Kirby and husband Joey of Barbers Hill, Arline Reeves of Dayton, and son-in-law Alvin Brown of Dayton; 16 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

JD’s legacy of love, faith, and hard work will live on through his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory provide comfort to those who mourn his loss.