Joe Reeves

Joseph Earl Reeves, known affectionately to friends and family as Joseph, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama. Born on April 1, 1936, in the small town of Opp, Alabama, Joseph lived a life marked by dedication, love, and a quiet strength that was the backbone of his family and community.

Joseph attended Opp High School and furthered his education at Wallace Community College, where he earned a degree in accounting. His academic achievements laid the groundwork for a distinguished career as an auditor with the State of Alabama Revenue Department, where he diligently served for over 25 years. His work ethic and integrity were well-known and respected by his colleagues and associates.

After bravely serving in the Army, Joseph returned to his roots in Alabama, where he met and married the love of his life, Martha F. Reeves. Together, they built a life filled with joy, sharing 60 years of marriage. Joseph was a pillar of strength for his family and is survived by his devoted wife, Martha, his brother Will (Buck) Reeves, 2 special nieces that were like daughters, Connie Byrd and Belinda Roberts, and several cherished nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his sisters, Eunice P. Reeves, Sara C. Reeves, Ethyl J. Reeves, and his brothers, George B. Reeves, Charles B. Reeves, Jack L. Reeves, John E. Reeves, as well as his parents, George W. Reeves and Johnnie P. Reeves. Each of them held a special place in his heart, and he often shared fond memories of their time together.

Outside of his professional life, Joseph was a man of many interests. He was a devoted Christian and a cherished member of the Johnny Oppert Sunday School Class at Ridgecrest Baptist Church, where he was actively involved for many years. He had a passion for woodworking, creating beautiful pieces that were both functional and artistic. His skillful hands turned ordinary wood into treasures that his family and friends will cherish for generations. He also found solace in working in his yard, where he could be found tending to his plants and enjoying the beauty of nature.

Joseph was known as a man of few words, but when he spoke, his words carried weight, and those around him listened. His advice was sought after, and his opinion valued, for he spoke with wisdom and thoughtfulness. He lived by example, showing rather than telling, how to live a life of honor and respect.

The legacy Joseph leaves behind is one of love, hard work, and quiet determination. He was a man who valued family above all else and worked tirelessly to provide for and protect the ones he loved. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but the impact of his life will continue to be felt.

As we bid farewell to Joseph Earl Reeves, we celebrate a life well-lived and a man well-loved. His journey on this earth has come to a close, but his spirit remains with us, guiding us with the same steady hand with which he lived every day of his life. We take comfort in knowing that his was a life filled with purpose, kindness, and a deep-seated love that will endure in our hearts forever.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the neighbors of Wynnfield Estates for the years of friendship and love they have shared with them.

A service to honor Joseph’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, March 6th, at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Tim Willis and Rev. Chuck Locke officiating. The family will welcome friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Balkum Baptist Church in Headland, AL.