Tunica Community Mourns the Loss of Beloved Resident John Reeves, 79, Found Deceased Near Tunica Lake

Tunica Community Mourns the Loss of Beloved Resident John Reeves, 79, Found Deceased Near Tunica Lake

Tunica, MS — It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that the Tunica community is mourning the tragic loss of John Reeves, a longtime resident and cherished member of the community. Reeves, 79, was found deceased Wednesday afternoon near the bank of Tunica Lake at the Tunica Cutoff, a quiet and scenic area frequented by locals and visitors alike.

According to the Tunica County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a call shortly after 3:00 p.m. on October 16, after a passerby discovered a body near the water’s edge. Upon arrival, authorities confirmed the identity of the deceased as John Reeves. While an official cause of death has not yet been released pending autopsy results, foul play is not suspected at this time.

John Reeves was more than just a name to the people of Tunica—he was a fixture in the community. Born and raised in Mississippi, Reeves had deep roots in Tunica County and was known for his friendly demeanor, warm smile, and an unwavering willingness to help others. A retired farmer and former volunteer with several local initiatives, Reeves was respected by generations of Tunicans who remember him for his hard work, honesty, and community spirit.

“Mr. John was one of the kindest souls you could ever meet,” said longtime friend and neighbor Carol Henderson. “He’d give you the shirt off his back, no questions asked. He loved his family, loved his land, and he loved this town.”

Family members reported that Reeves had gone out near the lake earlier that morning, something he often did to enjoy the calm surroundings and reflect on a lifetime spent close to nature. When he didn’t return home by the afternoon, concern grew, leading to the unfortunate discovery just hours later.

The area where Reeves was found, known as the Tunica Cutoff, is a popular fishing and boating spot. Authorities have stated that there were no immediate signs of foul play or trauma, but an investigation remains ongoing to rule out any unknown factors that may have contributed to his death.

As news of Reeves’ passing spread, an outpouring of grief has swept across Tunica. Local churches are planning vigils and memorial services to honor his memory, and community members have begun leaving flowers and notes at the lakeside where his body was found. His loss marks a somber moment in a town where everyone knows each other by name—and where a man like John Reeves was considered a cornerstone.

“John was the kind of person who made this community what it is,” said Reverend Samuel Williams of First Baptist Church. “He believed in showing up for people, in being present and being kind. We will deeply miss him, but his spirit will continue to live on in each of us.”

Reeves is survived by three children, six grandchildren, and a wide network of extended family and friends who are now grieving the sudden loss of a man whose life was defined by humility, resilience, and love.

As the investigation continues, the community has turned its focus toward healing and remembrance. Counselors and grief support services are being made available at local centers and through the church network. Family members have asked for privacy during this difficult time but have expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support.

A public memorial service will be announced in the coming days, with plans underway to celebrate John Reeves’ life in a way that reflects his values and legacy.

In times like these, communities like Tunica show their strength not just in mourning but in coming together to honor one of their own. And in the quiet memory of a gentle man by the water’s edge, they remember that some lives, though ended, echo on forever.