James Leonard Reaves of Sheridan, Arkansas was born October 13, 1941 in Portland, Oregon, the son of the late Leonard and Gladys Bratton Reaves. He received a Master's Degree in Animal Sciences and Nutrition and spent his life as an educator. He taught in Poyen, Prattsville, and Sheridan Schools, and at one time, tested in the top 10 percentile of teacher nationwide. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and planting a community garden, where anyone who wanted any of his vegetables, was free to stop and pick what they needed.

Mr. Reaves died Monday, December 5, 2016 in Sheridan, at the age of 75.

Survivors include his sister, Sue Reaves Herrera of Hot Springs; nephews, Justin Smith and Brad Smith; great nephews, Anthony Smith and Hollis Smith.

Memorials may be made to the Grant County Museum or the Grant County Library.

In honoring his request, no services will be held.