James Reaves Sr.  was February 6th, 1939 in Statesville North Carolina to Gertrude Reaves and Shelby Heath. He attended Iredell County schools when he lived in Statesville, North Carolina until he moved to Cincinnati Ohio in the 60's. James had a deep passion for muscle cars. He actually worked on cars as a part time Mechanic and Head Detail man at Rockenfield Ford, finally working until he retired from Century Motors Inc. He could fix almost anything and his cars were always detailed to perfection. He was a fun loving gentleman who could tell a good joke and put a smile on everyone's face. He would even laugh at his own jokes which was coupled with his infectious laugh and he'd soon have you laughing at something. It was his special gift. He married his wife Viola Reaves in 1971. This Marriage Union lasted 50+ years.

James joined the Golden Leaf Missionary Baptist Church shortly after moving to Fernside Place in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1976 and was a member of the Usher Board under the leadership of Pastor Carl P. Adkins. He also joined the choir for a short period of time until he realized that was not his calling but still continued to sing along with the congregation in a very low tone.

James was in a bowling league for many years and he was a diehard Cincinnati Reds and Bengals fan.  His favorite pastimes were going to the casino and every now and then playing his hand in the Ohio lottery and let's not forget working on cars. James absolutely loved his family, always putting them first. When there was a need he always opened his home to help family and friends because James had a big heart.

James was preceded in death by his parents Shelby Heath and Gertrude Reaves and His Loving Wife Viola Reaves and 2 other siblings- Frank Reaves, a Sister who lived in Baltimore, MD, and Son James E. Reaves Jr. He leaves to mourn a brother Micheal of Greensboro NC, 2 Daughters Cynthia Leach and Angelica Wilkins (Ron), 2 Son's Vincent (Darnell) and Derrick Reaves, and a Great Nephew Quenton Morgan and 10 Grandchildren, 9 Great-grandchildren 2 Great-Great-Grandchildren and a host of Nieces, Nephews, Relatives and Friends.

Gathering of family and friends is from 11:00 am until 11:30 am, on  Saturday, November 13, 2021, at the Golden Leaf Baptist, 5910 Argus Road, Cincinnati  (45224).   The Memorial service will immediately follow the gathering of family and friends and will begin at 11:30 am .

In keeping with CDC Covid19 Guidelines, we encourage those who are not fully vaccinated to wear a mask and practice social distancing.

To share a memory of   James or leave a special message for the  Reaves family, please click the "Tribute Wall" tab above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home is honored to serve the Reaves family.  Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.