Robert Franklin Reeves, Jr.

ROBERT FRANKLIN REEVES, JR., 77, of Memphis, TN, passed away Sunday morning, September 11, 2011, after a lengthy bout with emphysema. Bob is survived by son, Robby Reeves III; daughter, Kristi Reeves Bauer, both of Memphis and Dan Reeves of Franklin, TN. Bob had previously lost a younger son, Kevin Reeves of Loxahatchie, FL in 2007. Bob was preceded in death by a younger brother, Harrol Reeves, Ripley, MS, as well as parents, Frank and Mollye, both of Memphis. Bob is survived by siblings, Clark Reeves, Memphis and Maureen Reeves Potter, Clarksville. Bob will be remembered for his kindness, compassion and efforts to achieve in the world. His connection to, and love of his alma mater, University of Tennessee, were known by all who knew him. He was most proud of his children and grandchildren, Amanda and Joey Reeves, South Carolina, Robin Reeves, Texas, Reeves and Alyson Bauer, Memphis and Hans Bauer, Knoxville, and Jackson Reeves, Franklin, and four great-grandchildren. Bob was a humble man, full of love and tenderness; a man who accepted all and rejected none. Bob, then known as Bobby, graduated from Central High School in 1952. Following Central, Bobby served in the U.S. Navy, sailing out of Caribbean, Norfolk, VA, during tours in North Africa and the Pacific. While in the Navy, he received a commendation from heroism after saving the life of a fellow sailor, diving into turbulent waters to rescue a buddy who was washed overboard and, who he rescued, could not swim. Bob went on to attend both University of Tennessee, Knoxville and Memphis State University, finishing just a dissertation short of Ph.D. His teaching and professional career took him to Universities of Kentucky and Tennessee, where he administered programs for Adult Education and helped those seeking their G.E.D, and in turn, enrolling them in college classes. He was an avid proponent of education as the path to better, healthier, more fulfilling lives. Bob finished his career as a professional counselor, specializing in helping families and those with addictions. Memorial service will be Thursday, September 15 at 6:30 p.m. at Church of the River, 292 West Virginia Ave. Donations may be made to Church Health Center or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Memphis Funeral Home And Memorial Gardens 5599 Poplar Ave (901)725-0100

Published in The Commercial Appeal on September 13, 2011