Wilson Jefferson Reaves

Robert A. Waters Funeral Home

Obituaries | The Tube City Almanac | May 05, 2020

Wilson Jefferson Reaves, of Clairton, Pennsylvania, departed this life in AHN Jefferson Hospital on Tuesday, April 28, 2020. Wilson was born May 10, 1934, in Philadelphia, PA, to the late Fredrick O. Jefferson and Florine R. Macklin Jefferson. He was the second of four children. His son, Wilson Jefferson Reaves III; daughter, Stacie Ann Reaves; brother, Elbert, and sister, Charmaine McCormick, preceded him in death.

Wilson, affectionately known as Buzzy or Buzz, was born and raised in Philadelphia, PA. He was educated in the Philadelphia Public Schools.  He joined the Air Force in 1956. After returning home, he worked several jobs until he became a mail handler for the U. S. Postal Service; from there he retired. Buzz later met and married Wilma J. Ellis of Clairton, PA. Both were avid bowlers and together won many tournaments and trophies.

Buzz loved music and appreciated all genres. He taught himself to play piano and organ! As a youngster, he and some neighborhood friends formed a group and sang at various events in Philadelphia; He acquired a fabulous record and album collection of classic singers, which dated back to the ’40s and ’50s. He could tell you the history behind each artist.

Buzz loved doing things for and with his family. After he and his wife retired, they relocated to Clairton, PA. Wilma’s hometown. Clairton soon became his second home. He was a member of Henry Hopkins American Legion Post 881. He watched the Steelers, but he was a diehard Eagles’ fan for life! Buzz also enjoyed watching the Nascar Races on TV.

Wilson leaves to cherish his loving memory his loving and devoted wife of 38 years, Wilma J. Ellis Reaves; children, Lisa Reaves-Robinson, Cedric Reaves, Theresa West, James West, and Craig West; 10 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren; sister, Beverly Spurlock of Albuquerque, New Mexico; nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

In the words of our beloved Buzz: “10-4 ROGER OVER AND OUT, BRO UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN!"

Arrangements are in charge of Robert A. Waters Funeral Home.

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Originally published May 05, 2020.

Other deaths:
"Nancy A. Krupa" || "Aaron White"