Pastor Julia B. Peeler Reeves "Big Mama"

Pastor Julia B. Peeler "Big Mama" Reeves, 89, was born January 26, 1928 in Kosicusko, Mississippi to the late Emmett Dodd, Sr. and Martha Love Dodd. She attended New Gardner Elementary School and CMC College of Mississippi. In 1947, Julia married John Peeler, Sr. and they moved to Indianapolis in 1952.  She attended Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis and studied Business. She was employed as an insurance agent and real estate broker. She was a member of the Metropolitan Real Estate Board. Julia was a member of Eastern Star and M.L.G. International Pastor's Alliance.  She retired from Head Start Indianapolis School District. In 1978, she married G. “Mitch” Reeves. In 1982, she opened Big Mama's Variety Store on North Central Avenue. In May of 1982, Julia founded Truth in Christ Church.  She pastored until the time of her death.  "Big Mama" loved people and loved to cook. She fed the community for over 40 years. "Big Mama" departed this life on August 8, 2017. She was preceded in death by her parents, Emmett (Ethel) Dodd and Martha (Willie) Dodd; spouses, John Peeler, Sr. and G. “Mitch” Reeves; son, John Peeler, Jr.; granddaughter, Tomika Mack; sisters, Minister Aldridge and Pearlene Forrest; and brothers, William and Robert Dodd. She leaves to cherish her memory her children: Hollis (Getsy) Peeler, Laura (George) Clark, Marthelma Staley, and Elizabeth (Anthony) Gary; brothers, Emmett (Shelley) Dodd, Jr. and Willie G. Dodd; sisters, Ethel (Ronnie) Stone, Verner Thomas, and Reba Dodd; 25 grandchildren; 37 great-grandchildren; 16 great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, the Truth in Christ Church family, a community of love, and a special bond with co-pastor, Hazel Sanders. Visitation:  10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, August 15, 2017  Service:  11:00 a.m., Truth In Christ Church, 2431 Central Avenue, Indianapolis, Burial: Washington Park North Cemetery.