Earljean Reavis obit

Earljean Reavis Obituary

 

She was not on the list.

RALEIGH, NC - May 2026 - Earljean McCree Reavis, affectionately known to many as "Mother Reavis," a beloved woman of God, gospel singer, educator, entrepreneur, and former member of the legendary girl group The Cookies, peacefully transitioned to her heavenly home on May 7, 2026, at the age of 83.

Born on July 9, 1942, in Kannapolis, North Carolina, Reavis began sharing her extraordinary musical gifts at an early age. Before dedicating her life fully to ministry and community service, she enjoyed success in the music industry as part of the iconic 1960s vocal group The Cookies, known for timeless hits including "Chains," "One Fine Day," "Don't Say Nothin' Bad About My Baby," "Comin' Home Baby," and "Something Tells Me I'm Into Something Good." Her soulful voice became part of an era that helped shape American pop and R&B music history.

While music opened many doors, Reavis considered her greatest calling to be serving God and uplifting others. For more than six decades, she faithfully served in ministry as a choir director, Sunday school teacher, President of the Mother's Board, mentor, prayer warrior, and spiritual mother to countless individuals. Her powerful voice continued to inspire audiences through gospel music, including performances with the gospel trio The Sisters of Faith.

Mother Reavis was also a dedicated entrepreneur and educator. After earning her Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Arts, she founded and operated Dawn Child Care in the Raleigh area, where she lovingly nurtured generations of children and families.

Her passion for helping others extended through The Sisters of Faith Scholarship Foundation, a nonprofit organization she established to support students pursuing higher education and foster youth aging out of the system. Through the foundation, dozens of students and families received encouragement, financial assistance, and life-changing support.

Known for her warmth, wisdom, faith, and unwavering compassion, Mother Reavis leaves behind a lasting legacy that spans music, ministry, education, and community service.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Grandison Junious Reavis Sr., and her son, Demetrius Reavis.

She is survived by her children, Grandison Reavis Jr. and Dawn Reavis Martin (Reginald); grandchildren Adrea Reavis Smith, Amanda Greene, Kayla Smith Edmunds (Terrell), Kenneth Smith Jr., Jasmine Porter, and Dahlia Porter; great-grandchildren Ethan and Chloe; sister Sophia Williams; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, dear friends, and countless lives touched by her love and ministry.

The family is especially grateful to the loving church family of Eastern Star Holiness Church, where Mother Reavis faithfully served and, in turn, was uplifted, encouraged, and cared for with remarkable love and devotion.

"Mother Reavis leaves behind more than memories - she leaves a legacy of faith, music, service, and love that will continue to inspire generations."

Celebration of Life: Saturday, May 30, 2026 - 11:00 a.m., State Street Community Church

1200 S. State Street. Raleigh, NC 27610. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sisters of Faith Scholarship Foundation via PayPal to honor Mother Reavis' legacy of faith, education, and community service.