Reaves, Donald R., 69, of Palm Bay, Florida, formerly of Big Spring, died on Tuesday, December 12, 2000, at his residence. Graveside funeral services with military honors will be at 2:00 PM Saturday, December 16, 2000, at Mt. Olive Memorial Park with Rev. Dudley Mullins, pastor of East Fourth Street Baptist Church, officiating. He was born on February 13, 1931 in Big Spring, Texas and married Betty L. Lurding on April 24, 1976 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Mr. Reaves grew up in Big Spring, graduating from Big Spring High School as Salutatorian in 1948. He then attended Texas A & M University, graduating in 1953 with a degree in civil engineering. He then entered the United States Air Force and served in Korea and Viet Nam. He retired as a Colonel on August 31, 1979 after 26 years of service. Mr. Reaves lived in Austin from 1979 until moving to Palm Bay, Florida in 1991. He was a member of Palm Bay United Methodist Church, where he served as a trustee and chairman. Survivors include his wife, Betty Reaves of Palm Bay, Florida; five daughters, Bonnie Reaves and Cathy Jordan both of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Caroline Powers of Austin, Lori Ekes of Plano and Lisa Greathouse of Corinth; one son, Matthew Reaves of Littleton, Colorado; nine grandchildren; three brothers, Bernard Reaves of Odessa, Bennett Reaves of Lubbock and Roy Reaves of San Antonio; and one sister, Patsy Anderson of Big Spring. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Vera Bennett Reaves and by one brother, Milton Reaves. The family suggests memorials to: Palm Bay United Methodist Church or to Hospice of Health First, 1900 Dairy Rd, Melbourne, Florida 32904. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the funeral home. Arrangements under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home.,
