Lt. Col. (Retired) Jasper S. Reaves

Lt. Colonel Jasper Stanley Reaves, affectionately known as “JR,” was born on January 9, 1959, in Marion County, South Carolina, to the late Reverend Maceo Stanley Reaves and Missionary Mary Eliza Page Reaves of Lake View, South Carolina. He passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025.

Jasper grew up in Pleasantville, New Jersey, where he attended school and developed early passions for music and athletics. He played the trumpet as a member of both the concert and marching bands and competed as part of his high school wrestling team. In those days, Jasper even worked for two summers in the fields of South Carolina cropping tobacco. Shortly after graduating from high school, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy. During his active duty, Jasper served aboard the USS Mississippi (CGN-40), holding the rank of Operations Specialist Third Class (OS3). From 1977 to 1981, he served with diligence and integrity, earning the Good Conduct Medal in recognition of his honorable service. Trained as a Display Coordinator, Jasper excelled in a role that demanded precision, technical expertise, and leadership. His Honorable Discharge reflected his discipline, excellence, and faithful commitment to duty. Following his naval service, Jasper began his studies at Stockton State College and later graduated as the institution’s first African American with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics.

He then continued his military career with distinction in the United States Air National Guard, a component of the United States Air Force as a Health Services Administrator. Over the span of four decades, he rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, receiving numerous awards and decorations for both his domestic and international contributions. Among his notable deployments was his service at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia during the Persian Gulf War, where he played a vital role in critical operations, serving with courage, excellence, and unwavering dedication.

When “JR” returned to civilian life, he did so with his signature sense of adventure and devotion. He worked as a court executive for the state of New Jersey, and he was a notary. He also loved to travel, spend quality time with family, and immerse himself in his favorite pastime - running his eBay store. Jasper was known for his daily, joyful treasure-hunting excursions to Goodwill stores up and down the East Coast, always on the lookout for something unique and meaningful.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved daughter, Megan Patrice Reaves, and his treasured grandchildren: Nimirah, Daques and Zaahire of Atlantic City, NJ. Jasper is also survived by his devoted siblings: Robert (Sandra) Reaves of Egg Harbor Township, NJ and Reverend Dr. Marlinda (Reverend Dr. David) Ireland of Sparta, NJ.

Jasper’s legacy will continue through his nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles: Robyn (Calvin) Reaves-Rice, Robert (April) Reaves Jr., James (Cartayah) Reaves, Adrian (Jamie) Reaves, Christina Reaves, Desmond Reaves, David Reaves Jr., Danielle (Louis) Ireland-Imhof, and Jessica Ireland. Frances (Elroy) Pringle, Loretta Goodman, Gail (Nathaniel) Wilson, Roberta (Vernon) White, Milton (Sandra) Reaves, Tim (Gina) Reaves and a host of cousins, and colleagues, as well as his good friend Pamela Corker- Wade and his goddaughter Kayla Wade.

“JR” was preceded in death by his brothers, David (Mary-Grace) Reaves, and Andre (Ann) Rowell.

In closing, Lt. Colonel Jasper Stanley Reaves will be remembered for his gentle heart, sharp wit, love for family, and unwavering faith. He lived with quiet dignity and gave generously of his time and spirit to those around him. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue through the lives he touched.

Please keep the family of Lt. Col. (Retired) Jasper Stanley Reaves in your thoughts and prayers.