Jean Shatley Reeves

Jean Turner Shatley Reeves, age 92, of West Jefferson, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 7, 2025, at Generations Ashe Assisted Living, with her daughter by her side. Jean was born in Ashe County on Sunday, January 22, 1933, to the late Claude Howard and Laura Mae Faw Shatley. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Adolphus Reeves, also a native of Ashe County. In addition, she was predeceased by her loving brother, Billy Joe Shatley, and sister-in-law, Maude Burgess Shatley.

She grew up with a strong work ethic and a joyful spirit that would carry her throughout her life. A graduate of Nathans Creek High School, Jean was proud to have played on the school’s basketball team. After graduation, she attended Draughon Business College in Winston-Salem, preparing for a long and successful career. Jack and Jean were married on October 31, 1953, and together they shared a loving marriage for sixteen years until his passing on June 6, 1969. Even though her life changed in many ways after his death, Jean faced each day with quiet strength, faith, and determination.

She worked for Hanes Knit Products for 38½ years, where she was known for her dedication and attention to detail. Jean was a talented cook and won blue ribbons at many county fairs for her pies, pickles, and canning. After retiring, she continued to stay busy helping cater local weddings and special events with her mints and fudge. Her kitchen always smelled of something delicious, and her famous brown sugar cheesecake was a favorite among family and friends. Jean also enjoyed traveling; she went to the Holy Land, Europe, and the NC beaches.

Jean found peace and joy in the simple beauty of nature. She was a devoted gardener. She delighted in tending her tomatoes, purple potatoes, cucumbers, blackberries, and raspberries. Her heart’s love in the garden were her peonies. She wondered if one or two of her blooms might have earned a show stopper designation if entered in competition. She frequently shared her gardening efforts with family and neighbors. A devoted member of Fletcher Memorial Baptist Church, Jean’s faith guided her throughout her life. She will be remembered not only for her kindness and generosity but also for her sharp wit and wonderful sense of humor that could light up any room.

Mrs. Reeves is survived by her daughter, Jackie Reeves Badger (Michael) of Jefferson, two step-grandchildren, Chan Badger (Jenny) and Andrea B. Reeves, four step-great-grandchildren, Courtlyn Reeves (Sarah), Cagney Reeves Roberts (Nathan), Henry Badger and Annie Badger, three step-great-great-grandchildren, Hadley Reeves, Callahan Reeves and Andie Roberts. 

Funeral services will be held on Sunday at 3:00 pm at Ashelawn Memorial Chapel by Rev. Jeff Vogler. Burial will follow in Ashelawn Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 3:00 pm Sunday prior to the service at Ashelawn.

Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made either to Fletcher Memorial Baptist Church; PO Box 65, Jefferson, NC 28640, or to an organization of choice.

Jean’s life was a reflection of hard work, laughter, and grace. Her legacy of love, hospitality, and devotion will live on in all who knew her. Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will forever remain a blessing to her family and friends.