Marie Joy Pederson Reeves, 86, retired co-owner of Reeves and Sons Auto Service, passed away Wednesday evening, February 16, 2011 at the Good Samaritan Society in Winfield.

Marie was born to Hans Peter and Emma Pearl (Van Lehn) Pederson in Turon, Kansas on September 6, 1924. She was the last remaining sibling of twelve children which included her twin brother Melvin. She graduated from Turon High School in 1942.

She married Merlin L. "Slim" Reeves on March 13, 1944. Marie and Merlin "Slim" Reeves opened Reeves and Sons Auto Service in February of 1972. They were joined in business by all three sons and one grandson. The business remained open until January of 2007. Marie was a long time member of the First United Methodist Church and taught Sunday school and the children's choir. Before establishing Reeves and Sons Auto Service Marie had a child care business in her home, and looked after many Winfield children. She was an avid bowler, member and sponsor of several bowling teams throughout her life. Southwestern College was an important part of the lives of Slim and Marie as they served as foster football parents for many years as well as housing international students from time to time. She also enjoyed crocheting and made many beautiful afghans and baby blankets. Slim preceded her in death on January 1, 2006.

Her family includes:
Her sons: Larry Reeves of Parkerfield, KS; Steve Reeves and wife, Jane of Winfield, KS; and Neil Reeves and wife, Kathy of Winfield, KS;
Her grandchildren: Mitchell Reeves and wife, Melissa of Hutchinson; Gianna Carrillo and husband, Agustin, Jr. of Parkerfield; Michele Bennett and husband, Todd of Phoenix, AZ; Stacey Reeves and husband, Dan Diana of Portland, OR; Corey Reeves and wife, Kim of Wamego, KS; Brian Reeves and wife, Alisa of Lenexa; and
Her 10 great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, Marie was preceded in death by her daughter-in-law, Carol Ann Reeves and eleven brothers and sisters.

Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, February 22, 2011 at 10:00 A.M. at Miles Funeral Service, in Winfield. Interment will follow at Highland Cemetery. Friends may call at Miles Funeral Service on Monday evening from 4 to 8 P.M. The family will greet visitors from 6 to 8 that evening.

Memorials have been established in Marie's name for the First United Methodist Church and for Rivercross Hospice. Contributions may be made through the funeral home.