Reeves Beasley

Willard Reeves Beasley, known affectionately as “RB,” passed away on July 28, 2024, in Jackson at the age of 81. Born on Nov. 28, 1942, in Hazlehurst, RB lived a life marked by dedication to his family, friends, and community.

RB worked on the railroad as a locomotive engineer in the ‘70s and ‘80s, and also served in the National Guard, where he committed himself to the values of duty and service. After retiring, he embarked on a career that saw him owning and operating RB’s One Stop and 3B’s Auto Sales, which showcased his entrepreneurial spirit and strong work ethic.

A member of the Hazlehurst Methodist Church, RB’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was a man of simple pleasures, one of which was his love for cows, which reflected his deep appreciation for the simpler, rural lifestyle.

RB created a beautiful life with his wife of 61 years, Eloise Beasley. Together, they raised three daughters and were blessed with six grandchildren and a great-granddaughter. He is survived by his wife, Eloise; daughters, Andrea (Kendall) McManus and Amy (Stanley) Eckhoff; grandchildren, Christina (Caleb) Story, Ashley (John) Hamblin, Haley McManus, Dylan McManus, Cory (Kaitlen) Eckhoff, and Cole Eckhoff; great-granddaughter Ruby McManus; siblings Dennis (Donna) Beasley and Charlotte (Frank) Neely.

RB was preceded in death by his parents, Florence and Lawrence Beasley, and daughter, Angela Beasley Adams.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, July 31, and noon to 2 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 1, at Stringer Family Funeral Home in Hazlehurst. The service will be at 2 p.m., Thursday, at Stringer Family Chapel, with burial at Shady Grove Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hazlehurst Methodist Church.