William Reeves

William “Howard” Reeves  age 86,  of  Battle Creek passed away Saturday, May 21, 2016 at Kairos Dwelling in Kalamazoo, Michigan.  He was born December 24, 1929 in Moulton, Alabama, the son of William Wilbert and Virginia Loucile (Brewer) Reeves.  Howard graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1948.  He served in the US Marine Corp from 1948-1950 and in the US Air Force during the Korean War.   He was employed at the Battle Creek Air National Guard for 30 years and completed his Fed gov’t career at the Battle Creek Federal Center from which he retired.  Howard was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and the American Legion Post #54.  He enjoyed his 40 acre farm, playing church softball, city softball, basketball and became a licensed private pilot.  Howard coached in the Battle Creek and Pennfield Little Leagues and was involved in the Young Marines Project.  Howard  was preceded in death by his parents, Wilbert and Virginia, his step-father Ralph Heflin Sr., his first wife of 30 years, Martha  G. Dearman,  a sister, Lucille King, a brother, Ralph Heflin Jr., step-sister Ruby Young and other close family members.  He was united in marriage on May 31, 1980 in Battle Creek to Patricia A. Johnson; she survives.  Also surviving are sons; Randy C. (Bonnie) Reeves of Battle Creek, MI, William Anthony “Tony” (Jo-Ellen) Reeves of Dowling, MI, Steven L. (Cindi) Reeves of Springville, UT, adopted son Douglas L. Reeves of Battle Creek; and a daughter; Gloria Y. Wilkins of Provo, UT; 23 grandchildren and 46 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.   Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 2, 2016 from 6-8 PM at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home and one hour prior to service at the church.  Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 3, 2016 at 11:00 AM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints with burial at Fort Custer National Cemetery to follow.  Bishop John Taylor officiating.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation or the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.  www.henryfuneralhome.org

---