Chester Murrel Reeves was called to rest peacefully at the age of 79 with his loved ones by his side. Born November 10, 1931 in Monadale, Texas to Hettie and J.L. Reeves Sr., Chester was the youngest of seven boys. Chester is preceded in death by his parents and brothers Homer, James, Duke, Earl and J.L. Jr. He is survived by one brother John Reeves, his partner and companion of 53 years, Mary Virginia Holloway; son Billy Reeves, son Vernon (Coach) Farmer and daughter Carolyn Gilmore and husband Terry Gilmore. He leaves behind grandson Tanner Reeves and wife Tiana, grandson Zachary Gilmore and wife Claudia and three great grandchildren Deya, Yancey and Zayne Gilmore.
Chester was raised in Hutto, Texas where he graduated from high school in 1949. Upon graduating, Chester entered the United States Air Force and was stationed in Guam. When he completed his service for the United States, he joined the Texas Department of Public Safety and entered their Academy. He graduated from the Academy and was first stationed in Corsicana, Texas. During his time in Corsicana, he met the woman who would become the love of his life, Mary Virginia Holloway. Shortly after their marriage, Chester was transferred to San Marcos where he would complete 34 years of service as a State Trooper for the Texas Department of Public Safety. During his time of service in San Marcos, Chester was a Master Mason and Past Master of Lodge 342.
Chester was a man of many hats and always had a story. He was very involved in community affairs and was always willing to lend his hand. He was actively involved in his grandkids lives and attended many of their games and activities. Chester always put his family first and his friends knew they could count on him. Chester was a great man, a loving husband, a caring father, a wonderful friend and a one-of-a-kind grandfather. The gates of heaven have been opened for a very special angel. He will truly be missed and may he rest in peace.
The family will receive friends Wednesday, January 19, 2011 at Thomason Funeral Home in San Marcos between 5 and 7 p.m. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home Thursday, January 20 at 11 a.m. Private graveside services will be held in Hutto, Texas.
Pall Bearers are Zachary Gilmore, Zayne Gilmore, Tanner Reeves, Terry Gilmore, Pee Wee Doherty, Mike Reeves and Ed Green. Honorary Pall Bearers are Bill Pruitt, Henry Brune, Ralph Meyer, Ralph McClendon, Jeff Solms, Daryl White, Bobby Kinser and Mike Holmes.
