Gary Lynn Reeves

Gary Lynn Reeves, age 82, of Ottumwa, Iowa, passed away on Monday, May 4, 2026, at Vista Woods Care Center in Ottumwa. Gary was born on November 21, 1943, in Albia, IA, to Harley and Bonnie (Hughes) Reeves. He grew up attending school in Albia, graduating with the Class of 1962. On October 31, 1961, he was united in marriage to Barbara Prall and to this union, 2 children were born, Mark Allen and Jeffrey Lynn. Gary and Barbara shared nearly 62 years of marriage prior to Barbara’s passing on August 22, 2023. Gary was a hardworking man and dedicated his life to serving others. He spent 25 years as a police officer with the Ottumwa Police Department and later owned and managed the Stardust Restaurant in Ottumwa for 7 years. He went on to work for Ottumwa Regional Housing, where he eventually retired. In his retirement years, he enjoyed driving bus for Job Corps in Ottumwa. Gary also loved devoting his time to ministry, serving as minister for many years at several locations, including Centerville, Oskaloosa, Ollie, the First Baptist Church in Ottumwa, Blakesburg, and Christiansburg, IA, continuing his service faithfully until his health no longer allowed. He was a talented musician and enjoyed playing the piano and organ at the Stardust Restaurant, church services, and at many care centers over the years. Above all else, Gary loved his family dearly and cherished the time spent with them, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Gary is survived by a son, Mark Reeves of Ottumwa; 5 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; a brother, Raymond (Betty) Reeves of Albia; a sister, Vicky (Glen) Ammons of Bondurant; and a brother-in-law, Jay Vernon of Indianola. Gary is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and good friends. He is preceded in death by his wife, Barbara; a son, Jeffrey Reeves; a grandson, Jeffrey David Reeves; his parents, Roy and Bonnie Landsperger and Harley Reeves; his mother-in-law, Edith Prall; and a sister-in-law, June Vernon. Per Gary’s wishes, his body has been cremated and a private family burial will be held at Pleasant Corners Cemetery in Monroe County, IA. An open memorial has been established to the family.

Gary Lynn Reeves

November 21, 1943 - May 4, 2026