William Lafate "Big Red" Reeves

William Lafate “Big Red” Reeves
The Unofficial Mayor of Candler, North Carolina

William Lafate “Big Red” Reeves, a lifelong resident and beloved figure of Reeves Cove and Candler, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025. Known affectionately as “Big Red,” he worked really hard to take care of his family, was always friendly to everyone, and was a true, loyal friend.

Born to the late James Russell Reeves and Savannah Loe Brown, Red lived a life filled with community, family, and friendship. He was preceded in death by his wife, Dianne T. Reeves; grandsons, Paul Ollis and Dwayne Caison; and brothers, Brownloe, Tom, and Nelson Reeves.

Red is survived by his loving children, Christi Ollis (Greg), Beth Langenderfer (Gabe), Joey Caison (Beannie), Darrell Caison (Holly), Mike Caison (Sharon) and Mark Reeves (Tonya); his grandchildren include Gabrielle, Braeden, Grant, Tobi, Casey, Kenny, Michael, Heidi, David, Cameron, Jonathan, and Benjamin, along with great-grandchildren Sam and Everly—and many more across several generations. He also leaves behind his sister Ann Scruggs, and brothers James and Eddie Reeves.

Red worked at Circle-Eight Foods, Cordell’s Towing, and Ingles, where he made lifelong friendships. He was also the proud owner and operator of Red’s Towing, a significant part of his life’s work.

Known as “Hickory Top” in the CB radio community, Red was passionate about racing and served on the pit crew for Slagle Racing. His Friday nights at New Asheville Speedway were a beloved tradition.

Red’s warmth and friendliness touched everyone he met, and he was well known for reconnecting with friends no matter where he traveled.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. We are confident that his closest friends—Wayne, Frankie, Carol, Danny, Lloyd, Ted, Henry, David and Earl, and many others—welcomed him with open arms at heaven’s gate.

The family will receive friend on Saturday, July 12 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Groce Funeral Home on Patton Avenue.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, July 13, at 2:00 p.m. in the Patton Avenue chapel of Groce Funeral Home, with Reverend James King officiating. Interment will follow at New Morgan Hill Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to here to assist with expenses: Honoring Big Red Reeves: Support His Memorial.