Jeffrey A Cleaves

Jeffrey "Jeff" A. Cleaves, 65 years of age, passed among family in New Smyrna Beach, FL, on Jan. 20th, 2026. Jeff was born on Oct. 7th, 1960, in Massachusetts to the late Arden and Bertha Cleaves. He is preceded in death by his parents, as well as his older and only brother, Michael Cleaves.

He is survived by his wife of 19 years, Paula D. Cleaves, with whom he lived with at their home in Oak Hill. Along with her he has left behind their four children, Leslie D. Hayes with her husband Brian, Kristie L. Mills, Philip A. Cleaves, and Eric M. Cleaves with his wife Cyndie and their three children, as well as his niece, Terri Healey.

Jeff was well known as a friend at various businesses locally, such as the Fraternal Order of Eagles Lodge branch #4242 in Edgewater. He was a boat finisher by trade, working at multiple companies in the area up until his health-related retirement. Hard work was something natural to him, compassion also came easily and you could find him putting in effort no matter the situation. He deeply enjoyed a day on the water and working hands on with any hobby project, mostly mechanics and home improvement. He will be missed by many in the community, and most of all by his family.

Any well wishes are to be directed to his wife Paula through social media, or by phone/text if one already has contact with her.

A fundraiser to assist the family in financial endeavors related to Jeff's passing can also be found online under the title "Assist Paula with Jeffrey's Arrangements." Thank you, and please keep the family in your prayers.