Matthew Reaves, Sr.

Matthew was born in Georgia in 1932. His Grandmother, a midwife, delivered him and raised him. Matthew loved his Grandmother Susie. Matthew left Georgia at a young age and traveled up north to New England, meeting Mr. & Mrs. Taylor. Matthew went to church with the Taylors. They helped Matthew find work which was mostly down the Weir at factories. Matthew met Christine, his first love, and they got married in 1955, starting a family. In 1973, Matthew returned to Georgia for a few weeks to search for his missing Grandmother.

Deceased are his: Father & brother Mark; Mother Mamie; Grandmother Susie; wife Christine; Sister Alma; and Sister Lucille.

Survived by his children, Diane, Bettyanne, Joanne, Juanita, Matthew Jr, Timothy, Wanda (John), and Janell, whose mother was Christine Reaves. Survived by grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his stepson, D. Melendez, daughter Tina (E. Seward), and wife Mary Reaves.

Matthew worked with his friend Chick for many years training young people in boxing. Matthew always liked boxing. Matthew had a great jab and a great right uppercut. Matthew worked as a process server with Chick.

Latter part of life, things are slowing down. Not working any longer. Staying mostly at home, watching church sermons, sitting in his recliner reading the Bible (John 14, Lords Prayer, Psalm 23).

Matthew enjoyed music, singing, people-watching, puzzles, liked to drive to and talk to folks. Last time he drove was to church in Somerset and then to breakfast. Matthew's smile was very contagious to many folks.

Matthew will be Missed & Loved by many especially by his Children: Diane, Bettyanne, Joanne, Juanita, Matthew Jr., Timothy, Wanda and husband John, and Janell.

Matthew and his second wife moved to Maryland in December 2021 with their daughter and son-in-law into their new home. Matthew needed a lot more care. Matthew became more forgetful, not knowing who anyone was. Matthew took his last breath here on Earth and is breathing a New Life in Heaven.