Thomas Henry Reaves, Sr. "Bunny"

1937 - 2026

Mr. Thomas Henry Reaves, Sr., age 88, of Prince George, Virginia, peacefully went home to be with the Lord on March 22, 2026, surrounded by the love of his devoted family—his beloved wife, Eva; his son, Thomas H. “Tommy” Reaves, Jr.; and his daughter, Janice W. Reaves.

Thomas, affectionately known as “Bunny” or “Tom,” was born on August 23, 1937, in Prince George County, Virginia, to the late Junious and Grace Young Reaves. His mother, lovingly called “Mama Gracie,” often shared with pride that he was the only one of her ten children who never needed a spanking—a reflection of his gentle and kind spirit from an early age. He attended Arlington Heights School in Hopewell until he stepped away to help support his family, demonstrating a strong sense of responsibility and love that would define his life.

Thomas was a hardworking man who dedicated himself to providing for his family. He worked at Fort Gregg Adams (formerly Fort Lee), Birchett’s Hatchery, and later at Hercules (Aqualon) in Hopewell, where he remained a faithful employee until declining health led to his early retirement.

A man of deep and abiding faith, Thomas loved the Lord wholeheartedly and trusted in Him throughout his life. He would often say to his beloved Eva, “Baby, the Lord has smiled on us again,” a testament to his gratitude and unwavering belief. Gifted with a beautiful voice, he found great joy in singing gospel music. He began singing a cappella with his first group, sharing their music every Sunday morning on WHAP radio in Hopewell. Over the years, he traveled, organized, and mentored gospel groups, continuing to share his love of music and ministry. Even after setting aside his guitar, he continued to sing joyfully with his church family. In 1977, he became a faithful member of Cawson Street Church of Christ, having previously worshipped at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Hopewell.

Thomas found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He was an avid archery hunter and enjoyed fishing, motorcycle riding, family trips, playing guitar, and singing. He also took pleasure in watching gospel programs, western movies, football games, and episodes of The Andy Griffith Show.

Known for his warm smile and generous heart, Thomas was always willing to lend a helping hand. Whether it was automotive work, electrical repairs, plumbing, or any task that allowed him to serve others, he gave freely of his time and talents, never expecting anything in return. If someone else had a problem, he made it his own.

Above all, Thomas was a devoted husband, father, and family man. He cherished every moment spent with his loved ones—traveling, worshipping, listening to music, studying the Bible, or simply enjoying each other’s presence. His son Tommy often said he was a one-of-a-kind father, incomparable in his love and dedication. His baby girl Janice says he was the best daddy God could have blessed her with. He was patient, present, and deeply committed to his family. His mother-in-law, the late Mary Ryles, loved him as her own son, and that love was returned wholeheartedly.

Thomas Henry Reaves, Sr. leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, kindness, and devotion that will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, Daniel, Howard, Walter “Jack,” and Robert Reaves; four sisters, Irene Matthews, Inez Taylor, Louise Houston and Juanita Beard.

To mourn his passing Thomas leaves his devoted wife of 65 years, Eva Ryles Reaves, his children, Thomas H. “Tommy” Reaves, Jr. of Richmond, Virginia and Janice W. Reaves of Chester, Virginia; his sister, Hattie R. Bethune of Dinwiddie, Virginia and eight sisters-in-law, Bernice J. Reaves and June R. Hill both of Prince George, Virginia, Gladys R. Files, Alice R. Rabb, Ronda Ryles Kelly R. Kennedy (Reginald), Brenda R. Suber, and Paulette R. Carrothers of Baltimore, MD; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Services will be held 10:00 A.M., Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Cawson Street Church of Christ, 310 N. 3rd Street, Hopewell, VA, Bro. Josh Lynch, eulogist. The interment to follow at Bermuda Memorial Park.

A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page.