Michael Monroe Reaves, Sr.

Michael Monroe Reaves Sr., age 68 of 301 Birchard Road, Sanford, NC transitioned into eternal rest on Monday, August 10, 2020, at UNC Hospital, Chapel Hill, NC.

Michael Monroe Reaves Sr. was born on May 3, 1952 to the late William Thomas (W.T.) Reaves and Louise Reaves in Sanford, NC. He departed this life on Monday August 10, 2020 at the age of 68.

Michael graduated from W. B. Wicker High School (1970) in Sanford, NC. He was a dedicated machine operator for a total of 47 years working with various employers such as Sanford Brick & Tile, Texify Lively, Sacolow, GKN, Siemen Allis, and Parker/Colfax which is where he retired in 2017.

Michael loved working outdoors landscaping, gardening, wood-cutting and farming. He never hesitated to lend a helping hand to family. Michael was known for grilling and his deep-fried fish.

Michael accepted Christ in his life and served as a dedicated member of St. Mark United Church of God (UCOG). Michael was recognized as “You Are The One” at St. Mark UCOG for his diligent work after 23 years of membership. He served as Chairman of the Trustee Board, President and Director of the Men’s Choir. He loved his “Men of Mark” and one of his favorite songs was “You Keep On Blessing Me” which spoke to his personal testimony. Michael was one of the church cooks and was called upon at several church cookouts. Michael loved his church. He was viewed as a “gentle giant” that was soft spoken and allowed his works to speak for him.

Michael met his soulmate and love of his life, Gladys Reaves in 1967; they later married on June 29, 1974. He strongly believed in family and was dedicated to being a provider for his family. Michael was preceded in death by his daughter, Tremillia Reaves and brother Walter Reaves. He leaves to cherish his wife, Gladys Reaves (Sanford, NC) of 46 years, two sons Jermaine Palmer and Michael Reaves Jr. (Lalani Reaves) of Greensboro, NC, one daughter Monica Alston (James Alston) of Sanford, NC, four grandchildren D’Aja, Jelani, Aiden, and Michael III, two brothers William Reaves of Maryland, Alvin Reaves (Marie Reaves) of Sanford, NC, two sisters Vera Reaves of Lilliburn, Georgia and Ruby Reaves of New Bern, NC, god-daughter Angela Page, mother-in-law Elizabeth Plush, step-mother Emma Reaves and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives.

Professional Services Entrusted to Knotts Funeral Home, Sanford.

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