Charles Reeves Obituary

Charles Smith Reeves, 87, of Ridgeville, South Carolina, entered into eternal rest on September 28, 2025. He was born on May 28, 1938, in Ridgeville to the late Hope Smith Reeves and Edna Mouzon Reeves. One of eight children born into humble beginnings, Charles worked hard his entire life and built a legacy grounded in family, faith, and integrity. He is survived by his devoted wife of 64 years, Joyce Smoak Reeves; his children, Charles David Reeves (Sherry) and Nancy Reeves Stramm (Leigh); daughter-in-law, Beth Reeves; grandchildren, Tillman Reeves (Gemma), Alexandra Schwacke, Amber Schwacke, and KJ Schwacke; brothers, Joseph Reeves (Marilyn), Bobby Reeves (Wilma), and Wayne Reeves (Diane); and sister, Jane Parker, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved son, Jeff Reeves; and siblings, Melvin Reeves (Vann), Harriet Murray (Buddy), and Pansy Jordan. Charles began his career as a GMC truck salesman, where he excelled and was recognized as Grand Master Salesman, earning many awards and trips for his success. In time, he pursued his dream of ownership and became the proud proprietor of Reeves Truck Service, which he operated for 38 years. Through his business, he built lasting relationships and a reputation for honesty, reliability, and hard work. A lifelong lover of football, Charles gave back to his community as a coach for many years at St. Andrews Parks and Playgrounds, and at the James Island Y. His team the "Red Devils", achieved great success, including a state championship. More importantly, he mentored countless young athletes, many of whom remember him not only as a coach but as a role model. In addition to coaching, Charles was a passionate University of South Carolina Gamecocks fan. Game day was more than just a football game-it was a way of life. He relished tailgating, cheering from the stands, and watching the games with friends and family. Supporting the Gamecocks brought him immense joy, and those shared experiences became treasured traditions that reflected his deep love for both football and togetherness. Charles grew up in the Methodist faith and remained an active member throughout his life. Although he was most recently a member of Grace United Methodist Church, he faithfully served in many congregations over the years. His service included teaching Sunday school, serving on church councils, participating in prison ministry, Stephen Ministry, Walk to Emmaus, and sharing his faith as a lay speaker. His faith guided his daily life and his commitment to others. Beyond football, he loved fishing and gardening. He took great pride in his gardens, earning "Yard of the Month" many times, and delighted in watching the birds at his feeders-often waging playful "territory wars" with the squirrels. After raising his family on James Island, he returned to his roots in Ridgeville, where he enjoyed raising cows and showing Boer goats, further deepening his love for the outdoors and all things of the land. Charles will be remembered most of all for his deep devotion to his family and his unwavering work ethic. His legacy lives on in the lives of those he loved, coached, mentored, and inspired. Funeral services will be held at Grace United Methodist Church on October 2, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. The family will receive guests at a reception following in the Fellowship Hall. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a fund established in his name to honor his late son's fight against glioblastoma, linked below.