Nina Reeves Birmingham, AL Obituary: A greatest spiritual Giants Has Passed Away
The Sumatanga family mourns the passing of our spiritual mother, mentor, hero, and friend, Nina Hazel Reeves, who passed peacefully after a truly extraordinary 100 years. A living legend and a gift from God, Nina’s deep and tremendous impact touched thousands of young people and adults across generations.
Nina was present at Sumatanga’s founding in 1948 and served as its visionary and conscience ever since. Every part of this holy ground bears her fingerprints. From AC Rock to the lake, from Little Red Mountain to Creel Chapel, Sumatanga is what it is because Nina was who she was. Her vision extended far beyond its 1,400 acres, creating a global family on every continent carrying Christ’s love, peace, and justice into the world.
From driving Alabama’s byways in Rubba’s convertible to receiving a steady stream of visitors in her later years, she never stopped filling the cups of her spiritual children. Nina drew her circle wide, from Hokes Bluff to Belarus. The Christ in her saw the Christ in you, loving you exactly as God made you. She saw everyone as the handiwork of a loving Creator.
Nina sought to make a home for us all. While our hearts are broken, we know she made peace with this transition. We will feel her presence in the friendships she forged and the callings she helped discover. Well done, good and faithful servant. You showed us the way to heaven, and that the days between now and then matter profoundly. Godspeed, dear Nina. We miss you so.
