Jaycen Chad Mulvihill, known as Chad Reeves by most of his older friends, passed away unexpectedly on June 18, 2026, at the age of 53, but left us with a lot of memories.

Chad was born on August 22, 1972, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He spent much of his childhood growing up in either Gladewater or Houston, Texas. Chad accepted Jesus as his Savior in May 1985 and was baptized at East Mountain Baptist Church. He graduated from Union Grove High School in May 1990. Chad was a writer, a storyteller, a YouTube personality, a music lover, and a film fanatic who could quote hundreds of movie lines given the slightest invitation.

He was a big personality with a quick wit and good looks (aka “pretty boy” to his high school friends) who never met a stranger. He kept people on the phone for hours because he had too much to say. He hated text messages; he wanted to hear your voice. Chad loved and believed in family.

During his life, Chad attended various colleges and lived in several Texas communities before returning to the East Texas area, where he spent the final years of his life in Gilmer. He spent several years working in construction and was especially proud of his years as a concrete pump operator. Chad was known for his unusual sense of humor. He also cherished the relationships he built with his family and friends. He was especially close to both of his grandfathers.

Chad will be remembered for the memories we shared, his humor, and the special place he held in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Though his time with us was far too short, his love and his voice will remain with us forever.

Chad battled mental illness that he could never quite outrun. He would want everyone to know that mental illness takes one down many dark alleys. If you or someone you love is struggling, please know that help is available and that you are not alone. In memory of Chad and his long battle, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Texas.

Donations may be made:

Online: National Alliance on Mental Illness

By mail:

NAMI Texas P.O. Box 300817 Austin, TX 78703

Chad is survived by his mother, Barbara Campbell of Mansfield; his father, Michael Reeves, and his stepmother, Karleen Reeves, of Longview; his brothers, Seth Reeves of Gilmer, Brad Reeves of Hallsville, and Will Campbell of Cedar Hill; his sisters, Raven Reaves of Austin and Amy Hopkins of Elysian Fields; his nephews, Jessie, Chase, Jett, Jagger, and Austin Reeves; Judd, Nate, and Case Hopkins; and Aidan, Slade, and Rhyder Campbell; his nieces, Ava, Ellie, Annie, and Carly Reeves, and Harper Campbell; and his great-niece, Darla Reeves.

Chad was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Jack and Joyce Mulvihill of Houston and his paternal grandparents, George and Inez Reeves of Gladewater, and his uncle, Hugh Reeves of Gladewater, and his aunt, Tam Stack of Deer Park.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Croley Funeral Home in Gilmer. Memorial services will be held at two locations: Forest Park Lawndale in Houston and Calvary Baptist Church in Gladewater. Dates will be announced at a later time