Carolyn “Blue” Reeves

Carolyn “Blue” Reeves, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on September 30, 2024, at the age of 75 in Austin, Texas. Born on March 18, 1949, in Port Arthur, Texas, to Grace and Alvin Pokorny, Blue lived a life full of joy, love, service and adventure. A Celebration of Life will be held at Dodson Farm in Starkville, Mississippi, on Sunday, October 6, 2024. Visitation will begin at 2:00 PM, followed by a memorial service at 3:00 PM. In honor of Blue’s vibrant spirit, casual attire is requested and cheerful colors are welcome.

Blue graduated from Broadmoor High School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in 1967, and later earned a BS in elementary education from Louisiana State University, where she was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta. After graduation, Blue moved to Atlanta to begin her teaching career, where she met her husband, Bill. They married in 1974 and soon embarked on their life together while Bill attended Ole Miss Law School and Blue starting teaching in Water Valley, Mississippi. The couple eventually settled in Jackson, Mississippi, where they raised their two sons, Brad and Blake. Blue was actively involved in her sons’ lives, participating in their school and church activities, Bible studies at Christ United Methodist Church, the North and Central MS Emmaus Walk communities, and the Sampler Antique Club. She enjoyed volunteering in numerous community service activities and working in various clothing stores, where her fondness for people shined. Later in life, Blue loved spending time with her two grandchildren, Caroline and Mason, who adored their “BB.” Her warmth and charm left a lasting impression on everyone she met, and she will always be remembered for her outgoing personality, big jewelry, and her never-ending wardrobe.

Blue and Bill shared a deep love for travel, whether exploring international destinations or attending sporting events with friends in support of Mississippi State University. After recently retiring to Starkville, they continued to enjoy this shared passion. This past August, they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a trip to Switzerland. Blue left this world doing two of the things she loved most— traveling and spending time with friends—as they were preparing to return home from a football trip to Austin.

Blue is survived by her husband, Bill; and sons, Brad (Mandy) and Blake. She was preceded in death by her parents. She also leaves her two grandchildren, Caroline and Mason; her sisters, Christy Harelson (Tinker), Nancy Stratmann (Eric); and many special nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Mississippi State University Foundation, Inc. for the Blue and Bill Reeves Student Travel Fund, P.O. Box 6149, Miss State, MS 39762 or online at msufoundation.com; or Starkville Global Methodist Church, P.O. Box 1791, Starkville, MS 39760.