Austin, Texas, August 16, 2025
News Summary
James “Jim” Ivey Reaves, a dedicated advocate for Texas agriculture and a respected public servant, passed away in Austin, Texas. Known for his warm demeanor and significant contributions to the agricultural community, Jim’s legacy includes over 25 years of service in legislative affairs, highlighting rural interests and community well-being. His memorial services will be held soon, reflecting the profound impact he made on many lives throughout his career.
Austin, Texas – Remembering James “Jim” Ivey Reaves: A Legacy of Service and Dedication to Texas Agriculture
James “Jim” Ivey Reaves, a dedicated public servant and passionate advocate for Texas agriculture, passed away of natural causes on August 8th, 2025, in Austin, Texas. He will be remembered for his warm smile, heartfelt greetings, and significant contributions to the agricultural community in Texas.
Celebrating His Life and Career
Jim was born to Les and Karla Reaves in Plainview, Texas, and grew up in Gatesville, Texas, where he graduated from Gatesville High School. He exhibited a strong work ethic, love for civic duty, and an appreciation for the values of rural Texas early in his life. He completed a Bachelor of Arts in Government from The University of Texas in 1997 and became a devoted fan of Longhorn football, baseball, and a skilled BBQ pitmaster.
Jim launched his career in 1991 with the Texas House Sergeant at Arms office, where he later became the night supervisor. This role sparked his deep love for the Texas Capitol and politics. His career extended over 25 years, during which he specialized in legislative affairs, public safety, and advocacy for rural communities and agriculture.
Professional Highlights
From 1999 to 2003, Jim served as Chief Committee Clerk for the House Committee on Public Safety under Chairman Bob Turner. He was Chief of Staff to State Representative Gene Seaman from 2003 to 2006. Subsequently, he led legislative and regulatory efforts for the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association for nearly a decade, championing the interests of the green industry and agriculture.
Following this, Jim took on the role of State Legislative Director for the Texas Farm Bureau from 2016 to 2018, advocating fervently for farmers and ranchers. In 2019, he was appointed the Coordinator for Intergovernmental Relations, Emergency Management, and Homeland Security at the Texas Department of Agriculture, where he later worked as an Infrastructure Liaison Officer. His last position before his passing was as State Legislative Director for the Texas General Land Office, starting in 2024.
A Legacy of Generosity
Throughout his career, Jim received several accolades for his professional excellence, including awards from the Combined Law Enforcement Association of Texas and the Texas Society of Association Executives. He was a founding member of the Sine Die Smokers BBQ team and was instrumental in raising over $400,000 for college scholarships through the Star of Texas Fair and Rodeo BBQ Cook Off.
Family and Community Impact
Jim is survived by his wife, Glynis; sister Karen Reaves Kerr, her husband Chad, and their daughter Poppy; as well as his parents, Les and Karla Reaves; and grandmother Elsie Park. He was preceded in death by several grandparents, including C.L. “Dady” and Eunice Reaves, and John Robert Park. His legacy will be cherished in the multitude of lives he touched and causes he championed.
Memorial Services
A celebration of Jim’s life is scheduled for August 16th, 2025, at Central Christian Church in Austin, Texas. Burial services will take place on August 17th, 2025, at Restland Cemetery in Gatesville, Texas. Following the graveside service, the family will host fellowship for guests at The Gathering on Main. Attendees are encouraged to wear burnt orange to honor Jim’s love for the Longhorns. In lieu of flowers, donations are requested for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, an organization Jim supported monthly.
FAQ Section
Who was James “Jim” Ivey Reaves?
James “Jim” Ivey Reaves was a renowned public servant and advocate for Texas agriculture, notable for his contributions over a 25-year career in legislative affairs.
What roles did Jim Reaves hold during his career?
He held various positions, including Chief Committee Clerk for the House Committee on Public Safety, Chief of Staff for State Representative Gene Seaman, and State Legislative Director for the Texas Farm Bureau, among others.
When and where will Jim’s memorial services be held?
Jim’s memorial services are scheduled for August 16th, 2025, at Central Christian Church in Austin, Texas, with burial on August 17th, 2025, at Restland Cemetery in Gatesville, Texas.
What can guests do to honor Jim at his memorial?
Guests are encouraged to wear burnt orange, reflecting Jim’s support for the Longhorns, and donate to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation in lieu of flowers.
Key Features of Jim Reaves’ Life and Career
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Born | Plainview, Texas |
| Education | B.A. in Government from The University of Texas |
| Career Start | Texas House Sergeant at Arms office |
| Major Roles | Chief of Staff, State Legislative Director, Coordinator for Intergovernmental Relations |
| Legacy | Champion of Texas agriculture, community service, and BBQ fundraisers |
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: James Reaves
- Wikipedia: Texas Agriculture
- Gatesville Messenger: James “Jim” Ivey Reaves
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas Agriculture
- Legacy: James Reeves Obituary
- Google Search: Texas Agriculture Advocacy
- Dignity Memorial: Pilar Reaves
- Google Scholar: Texas Agriculture Policy
- Gold Radio: Jim Reeves Death
- Google News: James “Jim” Ivey Reaves
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