A SPECIAL NOTE: PLEASE BE PATIENT. I HAVE MANY MORE EMAILS WHICH WILL BE POSTED VERY SOON...SO CHECK BACK OFTEN! -- JULIE

From: "ronald jones" <ronald.jones2@btinternet.com> To: <juliecj@netins.net>
Subject: Record of Jim Reeves
Date: Sun, 8 Oct 2000 00:15:35 +0100

Dear Julie,

May I first say how much I enjoy coming to your website. So sorry to hear about Mary Reeves. I and my sister have been fans of Jim for over 20 years. Can you please tell me if Jim ever recorded a song called "I Understand"? Keep the good work up and good luck with your website. I'm sure Jjim would be very pleased about his website.

Yours faithfully,
--Ronald Jones

Editor's Note: Thanks for your email. No, Jim never recorded that song. -- Julie

From: "Christine Robinson" <Christine.Robinson1@btinternet.com>
Subject: jim reeves question
Date: Fri, 6 Oct 2000 22:00:34 +0100

Hi. Did Jim ever record a song called "For the Good Times" and if yes, was he the original artist?

Regards
--Christine

Editor's Note: No, you must be confusing him with Ray Price. -- Julie

From: "Shobana Ravindran" <shobana@kshema.com>
Subject: I will always love Jim
Date: Fri, 6 Oct 2000 16:58:36 +0530

I grew up listening to Jim Reeves. I am 32 years (was born after Jim died). But I've listened to so much of his music that it feels as if I've been seeing him in person almost every day of my life. His "good man's" face, his touching lyrics, his baritone voice, his wonderful personality -- it's as if God loved him more and wanted Jim for Himself. I will never forget him ever. Jim has almost crept into my DNA with his glorious music.

--Shobana Ravindran (Bangalore, India)

From: "Melvin & Ruby" <rmsmall@mtnhome.com>
Subject: mamma went walking
Date: Thu, 5 Oct 2000 15:23:35 -0700

Good afternoon. I am looking for a song that I think Jim alone performed live. Maybe? It started out "shall we gather at the river" and was about a old man and a small boy at the old man's daughter's, little boy's mother's funeral. Have you heard it and if so where can I get the words? Or even who wrote it?

Thanks,
--Mike

Editor's Note: I don't believe Jim ever recorded a song with that theme. If I am mistaken, I hope someone will let me know. -- Julie

From: "Mrs Carol D Dobson" <carol.d.dobson@lineone.net>
Subject: Canadian Records
Date: Thu, 5 Oct 2000 02:23:12 +0100

I would like to say what a wonderful job you do with such a great website and to keep Jim's name alive. Also I can't wait for the forthcoming book to be released. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK. Can you tell me if RCA ever distributed Jim's records without inner sleeves especially in Canada? Thanks.

A lifetime Fan of Jim Reeves
--Carol Dobson (Mrs.) from the UK

Editor's Note: Not sure about the sleeves question. Maybe one of our knowledgeable fans can write in. -- Julie

From: "lorne harasen" <harasen@sk.sympatico.ca@sk.sympatico.ca>
Subject: Jim Reeves
Date: Sat, 30 Sep 2000 23:41:53 -0600

[Jim Reeves was] one of the outstanding human beings I encountered in my broadcast career of some 45 years. Jim was among many interviews including eight Canadian Prime Ministers, Bing Crosby, Jack Lemmon and Patsy Cline, to name just a few who found their way to my microphone. Jim just happened to become a dear friend which happens when folks "connect." My wife and I contacted Mary some 20 years ago on a trip to Nashville and we were treated in the Reeves tradition of warmth, kindness and empathy. The book by Streissguth may have been written about someone but it wasn't written about the Jim Reeves I knew. I am deeply troubled about the way Mary came to her end. Kicking people and destroying them when they can't fight back is a growth industry in North America which is aided and abetted by the need to believe the worst about people in the public spotlight. It is borne of envy and cynicism!

--Lorne Harasen from Canada

To: MSMETROH20@cs.com
From: juliecj@netins.net
Subject: Re: Automobile Accident

My uncle says that Jim Reeves was involved in a serious automobile accident and sustained serious injuries a couple of years prior to his fatal plane crash. Is this true and if so, would you please provide more information? Thanks.

--(Unsigned)

Editor's Note: Your uncle is confusing him with Patsy Cline, who sustained serious injuries in a car accident a year or so before she died in a plane crash. -- Julie

From: Swampladee@aol.com
Date: Sat, 30 Sep 2000 00:44:17 EDT
Subject: Jim & Anita Kerr

Can you please tell me how many recordings Jim made with the Anita Kerr Singers doing background vocals?

They backed up so many of the great country songs released in the 1950's and 60's, and I was just wondering how many of Jim's recordings include the A.K. singers.

Many thanks for any help.
--Elizabeth in Calgary Alberta Canada

Editor's Note: I'm not sure how many sessions of Jim's that the Anita Kerrs were on, but I do know that Jim first worked with them on the radio show he did back in 1957-58. They backed him on his daily, one-hour show which was broadcast nationally from Nashville. They also were featured on Jim's final two sessions, which were held on July 2, 1964. -- Julie

From: "Myers, Timothy" <Myers.Timothy@nsw.navy.mil>
Subject: THE SHIFTING WHISPERING SANDS
Date: Tue, 26 Sep 2000 15:33:29 -0400

Is there a Jim Reeves album or CD containing "The Shifting Whispering Sands" other than the Bear Family boxed set? My father has been searching and I have been searching, but to no avail.

Please help.
--TJME

Editor's Note: This is a good question to ask our trivia buffs out there. -- Julie

To: "John Best" <jmbest@optusnet.com.au>
From: juliecj@netins.net
Subject: Jim Reeves Memorial & Souvenir Photo Album

Could you please tell me if Volume 2 has ever been published of the "Jim Reeves Memorial & Souvenir Photo Album"? Thank you.

-- John Best

Editor's Note: This is a question that has arisen on numerous occasions. Because when the first souvernir photo album was issued, it said "Volume 1". People naturally wonder if a subsequent volume was ever released. Indeed there was, but the contents were exactly the same, with the exception of the cover. On the first edition, a handsome sketch was used of Jim. On the second, an actual photo was featured. Incidentally, Nashville writer Charlie Lamb did most of the text for the booklet, which Mary first released in 1965. You can still find copies for a few bucks on ebay. -- Julie

From: Loree Foreman <mlf@hotsy.com>
Subject: JIM REEVES SONG
Date: Fri, 22 Sep 2000 11:20:53 -0600

I'm looking for a recording (CD or tape) of a song by Jim Reeves for a friend of mine. I'm not sure of the title -- only have some words in the song -- so any help would be appreciated. I'm a BIG Jim Reeves fan, too, but don't recall this being a well known recording. The only words I have are "I'd fight the world before I'd let you go", and "Beg, steal, or borrow".

Thanks
--Loree Foreman

Editor's Note: Indeed, the song is called "I'd Fight the World," and it was originally included in an album Jim did many years ago. After his death, his widow Mary overdubbed the song with strings and released it as a single. It made a pretty good hit. It has been featured in various collections over the years, including in a vinyl release by the same title. (You may be able to find one on ebay, or post a request in the Trading Post area of this website). -- Julie

Hello people! The reason why I visit sites about Jim Reeves, is primarily because of my mother who died a few months ago. There's a very important question I hope you have an answer to... Do you know if Jim Reeves visited The Netherlands in 1963 (around June) ? Thanks for your time,

--Greetings from Rosh

Date: Fri, 22 Sep 2000 09:09:52 -0400
From: HWILSON <hwilson@nsf.gov>
Subject: Beautiful Voice

I don't understand why things happen to such a beautiful voice. I am a Black American and I just love that voice. I am looking for a CD of his greatest hits.

Thanks,
--Helen Wilson

Date: 19 Sep 2000 21:42:35 -0700
From: jay wizz <jaywizz@www.com>
Subject: Greatest and Sweetest

Jim Reeves is my whole world. I think the whole world loved him and always will. He continues to make and break hearts still. But I am his greatest fan. He will always be so dear to me. Favorite song(s) "Home," "Partners." Ok! All of it.

--Jay Toronto Canada

From: Rune-Olav Vetås
<Rune-Olav.Vetas@hordaland-f.kommune.no>
Subject: "The one all time great"
Date: Fri, 30 Jun 2000 14:35:08 +0200

Thanks to Larry Jordan for his efforts in making the new CD "THE UNRELEASED HITS OF JIM REEVES" possible. For a couple of weeks I've played this CD time and again and compared these new versions to the original recordings and demos. The new overdub backing and the re-mixing make these new versions sound somewhat fresher and sometimes a bit more modern. Thanks for keeping Jim's voice in front throughout this CD and the backing where that word indicates it to be, and a special thank you for including a picture of Jim in Norway with the silver disc he received for "Adios Amigo"! Apropos of Jim's concerts in Norway:

Best regards,
--Rune Olav Vetaas

Editor's Note: Remember, you can order it right here and get it in a few days! Just click here to order online by credit card, or call toll-free, 1-877-801-2716, seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. EASTERN time (The phone is for U.S. orders only. Those living outside the U.S. must either order online or send payment by mail.)

Date: Fri, 30 Jun 2000 09:24:50 PDT
From: DORIS GATH <mootie@usa.net>
Subject: Boy oh Boy!!

[In re: The new CD]. I LOVE IT!! It sounds like Jim just recorded them yesterday!! With the different background his voice sounds so much richer, if that's possible. Even his speaking voice is better than before.

I do prefer the old version of "Danny Boy," though. I LOVED the drum roll as he was hitting the rich, loud notes. I can see him yet standing there with his arms outstretched, in his red coat singing "But come ye back" and the drum was rolling. Loved it!!

Larry Jordan did a superb job on the liner. If it is a taste of the book to come, I can't wait as I'm sure thousands of others feel the same way. (To read more about the book, click HERE).

--Always for Jim,
Doris Gath

Editor's Note: Jim Reeves fans may be interested to know that Doris and her husband, Elmer, who live in Minnesota, were close personal friends of Jim and Mary Reeves, having met them in the early 1950s and spent time together on numerous occasions over the years. -- Julie

From: BClark6061@aol.com
>Date: Wed, 28 Jun 2000 18:52:05 EDT
>Subject: NEW JIM CD

I just wanted to let you know that I got the new CD in the mail today. I can't tell you just how great it is. I hope they decide to do some more soon. Have you heard any more about the Jim Reeves museum and are they going to move it to Carthage, Texas? Take care and again thanks.

--Bill Clark

Editor's Note: Thanks for your update and glad you like the new CD. I am listening to it now as I type this. One of my favorites is "Ramona," which is such a pretty waltz and Jim sings it so beautifully. Once you listen to it, it lingers in your mind for days afterward and you find yourself humming it! The other tracks all sound so fresh and new. The audio restoration on old demos like "Ball of '96", combined with the new instruments, really bring these tracks alive. It is magical.

As for the Jim Reeves museum...it is deader than a door nail. The museum property at Evergreen Place is up for sale, the collection stored in a warehouse. Carthage is not likely to ever see the Reeves collection of memorabilia unless the Reeves family manages to prevail in court and recoup the assets. And no plans have been announced by the new owners, though plenty of promises have been made over the last few years -- and broken. -- Julie

From: "D. T. Skinner" <deke@alaweb.com>
Subject: Song Title
Date: Wed, 28 Jun 2000 19:17:48 -0500

I was overwhelmed to find a website dedicated to Jim Reeves. I am a collector of his music even though I was very young at the time of his death. I once heard a song about a lawyer represent a "Lady of the evening," where at the end he tells the jurors the verdict is in their hands. Could you tell me the name of this song and where I might find it?

Thanks
--Deke

Editor's Note: The song is "Too Many Parties and Too Many Pals" and is on Jim's "Talkin' To Your Heart" LP, which unfortunately is not available on CD. However, the song is of course featured on the big Bear 16-CD compilation. -- Julie

From: "Hazel R." <hazelrehak@wcnet.net>
Subject: Jim Reeves
Date: Tue, 27 Jun 2000 12:45:41 -0500

"He'll have to Go" was my parents' song when they were young. Unfortunately, my dad left us to hear Jm's singing in Heaven personally. Dad was not a country music fan, but really enjoyed Jim Reeves.

--Hazel Rehak

From: "amelia" <amelia@pcola.gulf.net>
Subject: Live performances in the "Scrapbook" section
Date: Sun, 25 Jun 2000 16:57:02 -0700

Are the songs on the web site on CD anywhere-- "Home," "An Evening Prayer" and the others one that where recorded from the TV shows? If so, what CD are they from? I'd ove to get a copy.

--Robbie McCurdy

Editor's Note: You're referring to the Realaudio clips in the "Scrapbook" section I recently posted that come from some of Jim's live TV performances. No, they are not commercially available at this time. Which makes them even more of a rare treat for visitors to this site! -- Julie

From: "DAVID HILL" <dhill@kyol.net>
Date: Thu, 22 Jun 2000 21:38:17 -0600
Subject: An idea

About the movie "Kimberley Jim," could South Africa or one of the other countries that showed Jim the respect he deserves make a fair movie about him? The forthcoming book by Larry Jordan could be the script and I'm sure people would support it. A whole new generation would get to know" the man with the velvet voice".

He has inspired me. I even cut my last CD in Madison. have performed in Texas and have visited Carthage. Of course for now I still hold down a day job. My songs are played overseas and in my home town. I can really relate to other countries being more receptive to country music.

Jim Reeves was bigger over there "on the other side of the pond". I believe, had he lived, he would of held some title in the U.S., like "The King or Chairman of country music".

Thanks again for your kindness,
--David Hill

Date: Thu, 22 Jun 2000 21:34:59 -0600
From: "g.glenny" <g.glenny@ntlworld.com>
Subject: Gentleman jim

I was only 19 years old when I first started to collect Jim Reeves records, and the first ever one I heard was "He'll Have To Go," and I have never stopped collecting his great sounds. He is the greatest for me and always will be.

--George Glenny (Scotland)

Date: Thu, 22 Jun 2000 21:30:17 -0600
From: "kathleen owen" <katieod@home.com>
Subject: Re: QUESTIONS?????????????

How old would Jim Reeves be today if still living? Also, how old is Mary his wife? He was a wongerful singer. Did he know Marty Robbins, and if so were they ever on the same show??? Thanks.

--Kathleen Owen

Editor's Note: Jim was born August 20, 1923. Mary died last November.

Jim and Marty were friendly rivals...in fact, oddly enough, Marty was outside and heard Jim's plane fly overhead, then heard it crash.

Jim and Marty indeed played many shows together, and sometimes argued about who would get top billing. On one occasion in Florida, they did two shows, and agreed that on one Marty would be the closing act, and on the other Jim would... --Julie

Date: Thu, 22 Jun 2000 21:31:29 -0600
To: "myrtle rackley" <myva@vol.com>
Subject: Re: Remembering Jim

Jim had one of the best voice I believe that I have ever heard. When he sang back then they did not have the music to accompany them like they do now, but his voice was so fantastic he didn't need it anyway. I have several CDs by him. I think he was the best.

--Myrtle Rackley

Editor's Note: A year or so ago a man was in touch with me who claimed he was assembling a large stage production based on Jim's music. He had a baritone singer whom he said could do a good job of approximating Jim Reeves' singing style. He was hiring a band, writing a script, and said the musical would be debuting in a matter of months. But he dropped out of sight, email addressed to him was returned as undeliverable, and I've heard no more out of him. Rumor had it that he ran into trouble with United Shows of America, Inc., owner of the Reeves estate, but I have no confirmation of this. In any case, I heartily agree that a show like "Always, Patsy Cline" that was based on Jim's music would be a wonderful way to get him back in the musical spotlight again. It is ridiculous that no one has put forth the effort to do this. Obviously, it would be a big money-maker. But then, this is par for the course. No one in a position of authority seems to have any clue how to exploit Jim's legacy in a positive manner, much less cares. -- Julie

It will be my one regret that I was never able to meet either Jim or Mary (or for that matter, visit the museum before it was closed). I suspect that Jim's concerts in Canada were done before I came here in 1967.

I hope that perhaps one day I will at least be able to visit Jim's grave - we'll see how things go.

Just one more question -- I read recently that two albums which I have been looking for for ages on CD (and was always told they had never been released on CD) -- "We Thank Thee" and "The Intimate Jim Reeves" are now available. Do you know if this is so, and also where I could obtain them? I'm very doubtful if I will find them here -- there seems to be a terrible absence of his music in Canada.

I do appreciate being able to correspond with you, and thanks again.

Sincerely
--Maggie Buck

Editor's Note: The two albums you mentioned are available from online retailers. I have not heard them yet in CD format so I'm not sure how well BMG remastered them. Judging from some of their most recent efforts, they are pretty sloppy and you end up with a lot of extraneous noise that could easily have been eliminated if the record company had given a darn. Which they apparently don't. Maybe someone who has these on CD can write in and let us know about sound quality. -- Julie

I can't and won't comment about his personality, as I was only a year old when he died, but what I can and will comment on is the impact his music, in particular his voice, had on my life. I can remember as clearly as if it were last night that I would lie in bed... The thing that sticks out in my mind is the soothing, relaxing and assuring voice of Jim Reeves telling me that he was going to "change everything". I cannot recall a single night in my childhood, or most of my adulthood either, that Jim's voice wasn't the last one I heard before I went to sleep.

I am appalled at the Country Music Industry that has so callously turned their back on this great talent! How can so many frivolous books be written and movies made about people who have had little or no effect on the industry? How can this man mean so little to the craft he loved so much? I hope and pray that Larry Jordan's forthcoming book turns the tide, and begins a stirring of curiosity and shame for those who have let the memory of this great man lay in waste.

Again, thank you, and God Bless You!

--Tom Croteau Walt Disney Co.

Date: Mon, 12 Jun 2000 17:03:15 -0700
From: Kenneth Bendig <BetKen@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: It's So Very Special

The new CD ("Unreleased Hits") is everything you said it would be, and now I do have a top favorite Jim Reeves CD! I never was able to choose a favorite from my collection because they are all A#1, but this beautiful newest one stands by itself. Thank you for making it possible for the fans to have it so quickly. Every song on this CD has been made extra-special. And now -- The Biography! I know it's getting closer, and I was so interested in all that I've read about it on the website. You certainly have sparked up my life with the things mentioned here. Thank you for everything!

--Betty Bendig

From: <mgrizzard@hotmail.com>
Subject: NEW JIM REEVES CD
Date: Fri, 9 Jun 2000 23:49:47 +0200

Hello. I ordered the new CD of Jim Reeves unreleased overdubs and received it today. I just wanted to say that it is the most wonderful thing I've heard from Jim since the Bear Family set came out some years ago. I can't understand why Mary Reeves never released the first track, "Just Out of Reach." It could have been a monster hit single, on a par with "He'll Have to Go" and "Four Walls." It is spectacular!!!!

Instead, she released other inferior songs, and even that Jim Reeves Medley in the early '80s, none of which are the equal of "Just Out of Reach." I had always liked Perry Como's version, and thought nobody could top it. But now that I've heard Jim's, he "owns" the song!

The rest of the CD was wonderful too. The picture on the cover is the best I've ever seen on Jim, and I especially enjoyed the one of Mary inside. The liner notes by Larry Jordan were nothing short of engrossing, full of interesting briefs about Jim I had never read before!!!

This is really a first-rate job by all concerned and hats off to Larry Jordan for making it happen. All fans owe him a real debt of gratitude. I can't wait to read his book!!!

--M. Grizard

Editor's Note: Thanks for the note. Obviously, I agree that this new CD is a "must have" for any Jim Reeves fan. That's why I set it up so you can order it direct and get it faster and at a better price than anywhere else. For anyone interested, just click here to order online by credit card, or call toll-free, 1-877-801-2716, seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. EASTERN time (for those living in the U.S. only. The number will not work outside the U.S.) -- Julie

From: Paul.Doherty@whitbread.com
Date: Fri, 9 Jun 2000 16:50:24 +0100
Subject: Recitations

I'm after a recitation called "Old Tige" and someone told me it was Jim who recorded it. This being the case,is it available on a CD or tape to buy as I'm really quite keen to have a copy of it again?

Thanks
--Paul

Editor's Note: Perhaps someone out there can tell us what the song is contained on that's been released in recent years. -- Julie

From: KNOX007@webtv.net
Date: Thu, 8 Jun 2000 21:07:07 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Jim Reeves

I first heard Jim sing when I was in the U.S. Air Force at age 18, in 1955. I was putting nickels in the jukebox and without knowing who he was, I played his record, and heard a voice like I could not believe. I became a loyal fan that day, and 45 years later, I still am a loyal fan of Jim. It was tragic to lose such a great man as Jim who gave so much to all of us with his music. But I guess God wanted him to sing in heaven,a nd we can't argue with that

--Bill Cagley (Knoxville,Tennessee)

From: Burgessmb@aol.com
Date: Thu, 8 Jun 2000 10:29:50 EDT
Subject: I'll Always remember Jim

Jim Reeves has been my favorite singer for many, many years. During the years my husband was in the military, I spent many lonely hours listening to Jim's music. He was my favorite then, and is still my favorite today. He will never be forgotten.

--M. Burgess

From: "Delaine M. Pylant" <Delaine@windsong.net>
Subject: Impact of Jim Reeves Music
Date: Tue, 6 Jun 2000 23:36:18 -0500

My husband, age 53, has been a "dyed-in-the-wool" Jim Reeves fan for 40+ years. We live fairly near and have been to Jim's grave just outside of Carthage and have lots of photos taken with friends and family that have been with us when we stop by. We visited the Willie Nelson store in Madison, Tenn. on our honeymoon 20 years ago, saw an airline bag with Jim's name on it, and my husband tried every way he could to purchase it from the store managers. No luck! They did, however, offer us directions to his and Mary's home and even phoned Patsy Cline's nephew who lived next door to let them know we were coming by to see the bus and the house. The nephew was very kind and we took pictures and were in awe to be where Jim had once been. At that time, there was even a collie dog laying just behind the gate in the backyard. It was great. Somewhere we bought one of the replica posters that advertised Jim's performance at the Grand Ole Opry on May 21, 1961. We put it in the window of our van and every car that passed us between Nashville and Ruston, Louisiana checked out the poster as they drove by and gave us the thumbs up! We have the video that was made about Jim and I am about to join the fan club for my husband. Many thanks to all involved in getting Jim on the web and keeping his wonderful voice and his caring demeanor in front of the world. Wish there were more like him! Thanks.

Sincerely,
--Delaine and Reagan Pylant

Editor's Note: Thanks for sharing these anecdotes with us! -- Julie

Date: Tue, 06 Jun 2000 17:07:49 -0500
From: Jim Benson <jim@hfashions.com>
Subject: Owner of Jim Reeves Home For Sale

This is a follow up to the flyer that was sent to you concerning the Jim Reeves home for sale. I have been a neighbor of Mary for over 30 years now. I purchased the home from Mr.Gregory (United Shows of America) in December of 1999 and have been remodeling to date. It has been renovated from one end to the other. My name is James Benson, and I still live on Westchester and hope to find a good neighbor. Any questions, feel free to e-mail me at the address below. Thank you very much for posting it on your site.

--James Benson (jim@hfashions.com)

Editor's Note: Glad I could be of help. I hope whomever buys the home will be a Jim Reeves fan, and treasure this historical setting. My husband has been in the home during the time that he knew Mary, and remembers how lovely it was. -- Julie

From: "Rusi S. Mahudawala" <rusim@bom5.vsnl.net.in>
Subject: Tribute to Jim Reeves.
Date: Mon, 5 Jun 2000 08:01:40 +0530

When I, as a young lad of 23, in Bombay, India, heard on the fateful day of July 31, 1964 (which coincidently, happened to be my own birthday), that Jim Reeves had passed away in a plane crash, I was totally devastated. I was and still am an ardent Jim Reeves fan and I would go miles to pick up any Jim Reeves album that would be available. In those days, imports were not available and Reeves albums were very hard to obtain. The only source were friends who would go abroad. I had still built up a big collection, which I still have. Jim had a golden voice which would bring tears to your eyes or would make you smile with joy, with his melodious rendering of country numbers and ballads.

Jim's passing away has left a void, which can never, never be replaced.

--Rusi

From: BClark6061@aol.com
Date: Sat, 3 Jun 2000 09:54:55 EDT
Subject: Jim's relatives

Hi Julie,
I have ordered the new CD, just waiting on the mail. I'm also waiting for the new CD of Eddy Arnold to come out this Fall. They both are by far my favorite singers. I noticed that Jim has a nephew who lives here in Louisville, Ky., as I do also. Do you think he would mind if I try to contact him? Since the passing of Mary, there is no one that I know of to talk to about Jim. It seems I just can't get enough information about him, even though I read everything I can get. By the way, have you heard anything on what is becoming of the Jim Reeves museum? I sure hate to see it go to Texas, but I would rather see it all in one place.

Thank you,
God Bless,
--Bill Clark

Editor's Note: I am familiar with the nephew to whom you refer, whose first name is Wayne. I certainly can't speak for him and have no idea whether or not he would be willing to talk with you -- or even how much he knows about Jim in any event. I am aware, however, that he has taken an interest of late in the court case that's pending.

As you might imagine, over the years various members of the Reeves family have been besieged by well-meaning fans (as well as some who were not all that well-intentioned). Generally, they have kept a very low profile.

The other thing is, if the truth be told, a lot of them take almost no interest in Jim or his music. Surprisingly so. This is not to say that Jim's sisters don't cherish his memory. Of course they do. But some of the nephews and nieces, and their children, seem to have lost any feeling of connection to Jim. Some of them would be hard pressed to name more than a couple of songs Jim ever did! If it weren't for the money they stand to gain if Lani Arnold is successful in challenging the sale of the estate, it's doubtful some of them would even have surfaced. Frankly, there are scores of fans around the world who know far more about Jim -- and care more for his legacy -- than a lot of his own kinfolk do. Sad but true.

With respect to your comment about reading a lot about Jim, be careful you are not mislead by that horrendously bad pseudo-biography that was published on Jim a couple of years ago. You know the one I mean. The multitude of errors and the conclusions the author draws are appalling. As you know, there's a new book coming out that will set the record straight. You can read about it here.

As for the museum -- Jim's fate is in the hands of United Shows of America, Inc. When he was interviewed for an article by Country Weekly magazine last year, chairman Ed Gregory was quoted as promising that a museum would be opened by the end of last year. None has been. We know he has property near the new Opry Mills shopping complex in Nashville, so perhaps when that commercial development is fully opened, he will make his move. In any event, word is that any facility he would build would not be exclusively dedicated to Jim; it would incorporate other artists as well. -- Julie

From: "BG" <hcs@cscn.com>
Subject: Jim Reeves
Date: Fri, 2 Jun 2000 23:57:04 -0700

My Name is Basil Gracious. I heard Jim Reeves first in 1996 in India. I have always listened to him since. I know all his songs.

I was born in 1961. I wish I had one of his songs on record LP called "Just Out of Reach."

--Basil Gracious

Editor's Note: As you will note from the email above, one of the songs on the new Jim Reeves CD that you can order is, coincidentally, called "Just Out of Reach." -- Julie

From: "Belle, Harriette M." <hbelle@jenkens.com>
Subject: Memories
Date: Thu, 1 Jun 2000 16:31:52 -0500

I'm originally from the island of Barbados but now reside in Texas. I was born in 1953 so I grew up listening to Jim Reeves music. While visiting New York a few weeks ago, I came upon his music and immediately purchased the tape that was being played. It brought back so many childhood memories along with that sense of peace and comfort his music always seemed to give me. I haven't stopped playing that tape since returning to Dallas. Even my kids have memorized some of the words to the songs. I'm glad they're having the opportunity to enjoy his music as well. Thank you.

--Harriette Belle

From: DERWIN2@aol.com
Date: Mon, 29 May 2000 19:53:24 EDT
Subject: hello Julie

Hi Julie,
Glad to see you have a site for Jim Reeves. I also like Patsy Cline and Ritchie Valens as well as Loretta Lynn and have met Ritchie and Patsy's moms. Sorry that they are both deceased now. Was also sorry to hear that Mary Reeves is no longer living. Never did get to meet her, but bet she was nice. If you hear from any of the rest of the family, tell them hello for me. Well, just a note. Take care.

--Cheryl

From: "meloniefaye" <Meloniefaye@prodigy.net>
Subject: Jim
Date: Wed, 31 May 2000 03:10:52 -0400

Hi, Julie! Can't tell you how much I enjoyed the latest addition to the "Scrapbook" section. My mom just got a computer and she's been listening to Jim ever since. Just sent an email to "Biography" on the A&E network and told them they should do one on him; after all, he IS the greatest singer of all time -- there never was and never will be anyone else who sings as good. Again, thank you for the holiday treat; it is priceless.

Take care and God Bless.
--Miz Melly

Editor's Note: I knew that 99.99% of the fans around the world had never heard these live performances by Jim, so I was pleased to be able to post them. For those of you who haven't listened to them yet, be sure to do so. The neat thing is, these actually come from TV performances, so there is video in existence of them as well! I'll be posting more unique performances by Jim as the months go on, with some BIG surprises in store. -- Julie

X-WebTV-Signature: 1
From: noname2019@webtv.net (Allen Chandler)
Date: Wed, 31 May 2000 23:29:28 -0500 (CDT)

Hi Julie
I was wondering when Jim re-recorded some of his Afrikaans songs where he sings part in Afrikaans and part in English, did he sing the songs all the way through like that or did he just dub the English words over the Afrikaans words?

--Allen Chandler

Editor's Note: He just dubbed in the Afrikaans words.

From: EDBS@webtv.net (EDWARD RAUCH)
Date: Tue, 30 May 2000 22:10:55 -0400 (EDT) To: juliecj@netins.net
Subject: HELLO THERE

I really miss Jim Reeves a lot. I have a lot of his records and tapes. I've been a fan of his for a long time. Can you send me some more stuff of his? I am looking for "When I See the Blues In Your Pretty Brown Eyes". Can you send me some pictures and say hello to Mary for me. How long is he gone and where is he buried?

Sincerely,
--Scott Rauch

Editor's Note: "That's When I See the Blues In Your Pretty Brown Eyes" was a big hit single for Jim. It eventually released on the "Best of Jim Reeves Volume 3" LP. And it was, of course, included in the big Bear Family set, and has been featured on a few special compilations such as the Reader's Digest "The Velvet Voice of Jim Reeves".

As for your request for pictures, the best I can do is invite you to browse around this website. I have tons of rare and exclusive photos of Jim that no one else has. These are from private collections, and are not merely scanned from the Bear family booklet like what another webmaster has done.

Unfortunately, Mary passed away on November 11, 1999. In her will she requested that she be buried with Jim at his Memorial site near Carthage, Texas. However, her second husband, Terry Davis, refused to honor her wishes and intombed her in a Madison, Tenn. mausoleum instead. It's really sad. -- Julie

From: "naarling" <naarling@wishmail.net> To: <juliecj@netins.net>
Subject: jim reeves
Date: Sun, 28 May 2000 21:38:01 +0200

Thanks for puttin'up these pages about Jim Reeves, to me and my dad the best singer ever to walk the earth. Listening to the RealAudio files brought tears to my father's eyes. It's because of him that I became an admirer of Jim. Though Jim is no longer amongst us, his music lives on to all that enjoy good music and a great voice.

--W. Hendriks sr. (Netherlands)

Date: Mon, 15 May 2000 05:48:13 -0700
From: Aleeda <aleeda@bluebonnet.net>
Subject: Gospel Album

Please let me know the name of any and all gospel albums that Jim Reeves made... I love his music, and had listened to a song that had the words "Cross Over the Bridge"... I have looked and looked for it and could not find it anywhere. Please let me know the name and also where I can purchase it... Thank you so much

--Jean Johson, Daingerfield TX

Editor's Note: Jim only recorded two religious albums during his lifetime, "God Be With You" and "We Thank Thee," the latter of which has been finally released on CD. It contains a song called "Across the Bridge." Mary also issued albums such as "My Cathedral" and "Sacred Songs" which contained some overdubs, and demos like "Beyond the Clouds." Then there was the CMA release of "Live At the Opry," an album which included some religious numbers by Jim, including "Peace In the Valley" -- which he never recorded but did sing live. -- Julie

From: TXPSMITCH@aol.com
Date: Mon, 15 May 2000 16:04:29 EDT
Subject: Just curious....

Did Jim like Hank Williams music? His version of "Men with Broken Hearts" is wonderful, but I was just curious as to whether or not he actually cared for Hank's style and or material?

--(Unsigned)

Editor's Note: Jim spoke very highly of Hank in various interviews, both his songwriting ability and his personality. But he felt that Hank's high-pitched singing was not something that he himself could do well. In the early days of his career, when Jim recorded for Abbott records and Fabor Robison, Hank's music was the rage. So Fabor insisted Jim sing that way too -- in a higher key than was natural for Jim. Eventually, when Jim got out of his contract and signed with RCA, his new producer let him sing the way he wanted...in the lower register, which thrilled the fans.

Incidentally, Jim often told the story that his big break came one night when Hank failed to show up for the "Louisiana Hayride" and Jim was asked to substitute. That story is apocryphal. The person who didn't show up was actually Sleepy Labeef. But it made a good story. -- Julie

From: "DAVID HILL" <dhill@kyol.net>
Subject: jim reeves leo jackson
Date: Sun, 14 May 2000 13:36:22 -0700

Hello,
I'm David Hill from Lebanon, Ky. It's in the very center of the state, An hour from Louisville and Lexington.
I have two questions. the first one is, how can a person get Leo to produce and play on an album, I'm an indie artist.
My second question is : will there ever be a movie made about Jim, like Patsy cline, Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and others? There should be. I'm just 33 years old and Jim is my favorite country artist.

Thanks,
--Dave Hill

Editor's Note: We spoke with Leo just before he left on a European tour and he invited you to call him when he returns (I'll give you his number privately). As for whether or not there will ever be a movie made about Jim, don't hold your breath. At one time, Mary had collaborated with a Hollywood hack to produce a script, but became disenchanted with the idea when the writer wanted to embellish the story. Frankly, Jim's life story has enough dramatic elements, and no fiction is needed! -- Julie

Date: Sat, 13 May 2000 01:47:49 +0200
From: Thomas Sørvik <thassum@chello.no>
Subject: Jim Reeves music make me relaxing and feeling well.

Jim`s music means a lot for me. The music makes me relaxed and feeling well, and I enjoy singing to it. Sadly, I never had the opportunity to meet Jim. He died almost 8 years before I was born. But I was so lucky to get the experience to listen to his records.

Yours faithfully,
--Thomas Sørvik, 28 years old, Oslo, Norway

From: DPWhitsitt@aol.com
Date: Sat, 13 May 2000 12:02:56 EDT
Subject: Miss Him

I don't know of any singer that has given his listeners any more enjoyment. I just found this site and am planning on getting all his songs. Been looking for something like this for some time. Again I want to thank you for sharing Jim with us. We miss him.

--(Unsigned)

From: <pulitzerbound2@hotmail.com>
Subject: UNISSUED JIM REEVES OVERDUBS RELEASED!
Date: 4 May 2000 04:17:04 -0000

Dear Julie and Joyce,
Thanks for the e-mail alert about the new Jim Reeves CD. I was not born until several years after Jim Reeves' unfortuante passing. I am happy that his late wife Mary and you two are doing what you can to keep his memory and music alive for many more generations of fans to enjoy. Jim Reeves is one of the most outstanding vocalists in music history and his band the Blue Boys, especially the guitar work and vocals of Leo Jackson, were excellent. I have enjoyed discovering Jim's music and I hope that if RCA has any more of his recordings they will release them. Keep up the good work on the web site.

--KL

From: Kibbe777@aol.com
Subject: New Jim Reeves CD
Date: May 4, 2000

Is this CD just a RE mix? For instance, did someone just lower volumes on one thing and raise them on others? This is EXTREMELY typical in this industry. Just lowering volumes and muting some instruments and raising others...

Were any NEW instruments added...i.e. NEW musicians playing with Jim's music. In other words, like just a few months ago?

I've ordered the CD anyways, but am curious to know if a group of guys from RCA got together a few months ago and did overdubs....or re-mixes.

Let me know if you have time...

--Chris Kibbe

Editor's Note: This is NOT a remix. And yes, there are NEW instruments on every cut. I think you can easily discern this if you listen to the sound samples that are online. These are entirely new overdubs that no one has heard at any time. -- Julie

From: james4wri@webtv.net (James Wright)
Date: Wed, 3 May 2000 18:56:35 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: NEW JIM REEVES CD

The never before released material sounded great. That sound quality on music of the time in which it was recorded could easily out perform many artist today. Thank God Jim Reeves lived at a time when stereo first emerged (late 50's and early 60's -- unfortunate that his death occurred near the middle of the 1960's).

I'm glad new material is often found on artists of such talent as Jim Reeves. It will be a greater joy to hear Jim Reeves and his God given voice perform in heaven.

--James T. Wright

--Mike

Editor's Note: I have an old interview with Jim in which he talks about how he started out singing low, but Fabor Robison of Abbott insisted he sing in a higher key than was comfortable. Jim said that in the back of his mind was always the desire to sing in his natural voice, and also to experiment more with the spoken word.

Chet Atkins also has said in various interviews that the lower pitch was Jim's idea, and that he pretty much got out of the way and let Jim be Jim... More than in other artist/producer relationships, Atkins let Jim take control of his own sessions.

Hello to everyone "Down Under"! -- Julie

Date: Sun, 02 May 1999 16:12:46 -0400
From: Robin Kim <robin@petcentury.com>
Subject: Jim Reeves' beloved collie, Cheyene

Dear Ms. Julie, Hello!
I am writing on behalf of PetCentury.com about Jim Reeves and his dog, Cheyene.

We are currently developing a Pet Web site and we have a section where we would like to add biographical information about Jim Reeves and his relationship with his collie, Cheyene. I've visited your site to find out more information about his dog and I was unsuccessful.

I heard that his dog was buried with him or near him. Would I like your help on this. And would like permission to use a black & white photo of Jim and Cheyene, too.

Thank you,
--Robin Kim

Editor's Note: Yes, Jim's beloved collie, Cheyene, is buried just a few feet behind Jim at the Jim Reeves Memorial just outside of Carthage, Texas. Jim really loved the dog. Mary had gotten him and then talked with Jim on the phone that night. She had suggested a funny name that Jim did not think was appropriate for a dog. So she asked him for suggestions. He thought a moment and then said "How about Cheyene?" (Jim was performing in Cheyene, Wyoming at the time). Joyce Jackson tells the story of how the dog was so smart, when Jim was on TV, the dog would sit in front of the set with head cocked and watch intently. Jim and Mary both admitted to having treated the dog almost as good as one would a child. He certainly got a lot of pampering, that's for sure. He was also very protective of Mary when Jim was on the road, and she was glad to have him.

From: "Lance's" <glick@micron.net>
Subject: Jim's voice and music
Date: Sun, 23 Apr 2000 01:32:45 -0600

There have been many instances where I felt there was no future in my life and then I'll put on a tape of Jim's songs that a friend made for me many years ago from several of his albums and it's like medicine to my heart.

--Lance

From: "Pegasus_001" <Pegasus_001@email.msn.com>
Subject: A couple of questions
Date: Mon, 17 Apr 2000 12:16:15 -0500

Hi. I was raised on Jim Reeves. In fact, when I was 3 or 4, my family was dining at a small restaurant when I stood up in the booth and sang a couple of songs by Jim and one by Hank Sr. I am now a "quieter" 38, still play guitar but no longer in a band, and also am a commercial pilot. What I would like is to get more information about the plane he had. I thought I had heard it was a Cessna C-210. I also have about 20 of his albums and a few 45s, thanks to mom and grandma being fans. His music is double rewarding: (1) wonderful music, (2) brings back fond memories (mom passed away 27 years ago). I want to thank Jim, you and his family for giving us all such a wonderful contribution to music.

Sincerely,
--Jim Waydula (Champlin, MN)

Editor's Note: Jim normally flew a six-passenger Cessna, but the day he was killed had rented a four-seat Beechcraft Debonair. It was a high performance aircraft that was much more demanding, especially for a pilot who only had 200 hours of flight time. -- Julie

Date: Sun, 16 Apr 2000 18:06:32 -0600
From: Torinda Geenen <tgeenen@sk.sympatico.ca>
Subject: Lyrics

Did Jim Reeves ever record a song called "It Was Just a Neighborhood Dance?"

--Torinda Geenens

Editor's Note: The song was called "Oh What It Seemed to Be." --Julie

From: "meloniefaye" <Meloniefaye@prodigy.net>
Date: Sat, 15 Apr 2000 04:05:45 -0400
Subject: Jim

Jim Reeves is my guardian angel.

--Melonie Faye

From: Patsyfan1@aol.com
Date: Mon, 10 Apr 2000 19:39:44 EDT
Subject: Jim Reeves

Just in case you did not know: On this past Saturday, the on Opry TV portion, Charlie Pride mentioned he had finished his tribute to Jim Reeves Cd and is looking to get released by a label. Jeanie Sealy hosted the Backstage portion and praised Jim singing.

Also Jim Ed Brown hosted the Opry and opened with "Mexican Joe." Charlie did not perform any Jim R songs.

--Jimmy Walker

Editor's Note: Thanks for your note. Leo Jackson, Jim's longtime guitarist, tells us that he's very impressed by how well Charley sang Jim's songs. (Leo played guitar on the sessions). He's anxious for the CD to be released so others can hear this great tribute to Jim. -- Julie

From: "david buchanan" <daveybuc@hotmail.com>
Subject: my tribute to jim
Date: Sat, 08 Apr 2000 23:47:24 BST

I became a great fan off jim reeves some 20 years ago. That was when my grandmother died. I was 13 then and it broke my heart as we were very close. My grandmother always played Jim'srecords because she absolutely adored his voice -- so much so that it was her wish to have a relative sing her favourite song at her grave side. The song was titled "Maureen," as this was also her name, it has now become my favorite as well. My mother was given my grandmothers LPs whitch I now own and cherish and I suppose that's what gave me the initiative to continue to collect all off Jim's records. There will never be another Jim Reeves. Some singers my come clos,e but they will never have the heart touching feeling that Jim potrayed and put across to the listener. I wish the very best to Jim's sisters and to all his other relatives. God bless and thank you for allowing such a brilliant web site to be created.

Your Friend
David Buchanan (N Ireland.)

Editor's Note: What a special memory. Thanks for sharing it with us. -- Julie

Date: Sat, 8 Apr 2000 16:08:31 +0100 (BST)
From: ROGER SMITH <rsmith24_uk@yahoo.co.uk>
Subject: The Memory Lives On

It is always a joy to visit this site; I never met Jim but feel he was a personal friend. Hhis warmth and sincerity was known all over the world . And when he sang, he sang just for you. In County Cork in Ireland there is a singer, Oliver Barrett, who is carrying on the fine tradition of Jim Reeves. His recordings are a wonderful tribute to Jim. Although a multi-talented singer,his heart has always been in Jim's music. Long live the music

Roger Smith (HEREFORD. U.K.)

From: DaNicegy@aol.com
Date: Fri, 7 Apr 2000 04:02:31 EDT
Subject: Hello

Jim Reeves music was a great part of my life growing up. His tender songs I will never forget. My son is named James after Jim Reeves. Mary was such a sweet lady and a special friend I will miss her. I know that when I get to heaven he and Mary will be there to take me by the hand and lead me home. Once again I will be able to hear his voice. I thank you for letting me share this with you.

--Steve Weaver (Rialto, California)

From: Brandon Rozairo <brandon@slt.lk>
Subject: How much Jim still means
Date: April 6, 2000

Dear Julie,
I just thought of forwarding this portion of an e mail I received today from my daughter who is studying at Linfield Univeristy in Portland. She is so far away from us. When you read this you will know why I wished to share this with you. Jim still can be a "Tie that Binds", with his wonderful voice in words and music. God rest his soul.

Hi Father,
Sorry for not writing thisweek has been crazy!! and I'm loving it, the more work the happier I am because it does not give me time to get home sick, at least that's what I've realised. I downloaded some music on to my roomies computer and guess what the songs were? "Stand At Your Window," "Welcome To My World," "Don't Let Me Cross Over,"and "Have I Told You Lately?" The first time I heard old Jimmy's voice I was crying so long and yet so happy. Isn't wierd? He's now like a member of the family because so many of our memories are attached to him. Every evening that we spend as a family or with company in the study or pink room will inclde his songs somewhere and my gosh it was an experience listening to those songs. Now when I ever I need a "feel good" boost I listen to the songs and I am transported to the pink room with it's rose pink lights, floral furniture, carpeted floor, aroma and good family memories... sigh! Such is life. The things you take so much for granted become the things you long for the most when you no longer have them...

Well Julie, there you have it. If this is not a testimony to Jim's singing legacy, What is?

Warm regards
Brandon Rozairo (Sri Lanka)

Editor's Note: Thank you for sharing such a wonderful letter. My best wishes to you and your daughter! -- Julie

From: "barry weaver" <weaver.barry@talk21.com>
Subject: Jim Reeves
Date: Wed, 5 Apr 2000 20:38:22 +0100

Dear Julie,
I have only been a websurfer for a couple of weeks now but have been a Jim Reeves fan for over 40 years so imagine how happy I am to have come across your website dedicated to Jim. I was very saddened to read all about the court case that is going on at present. I have an LP in my collection called"Jim Reeves Live"-- an RCA release that features Jim at a lumberjack camp. This is one of my favourites and wondered if you know wether it is on releae as a CD. One album that I would dearly love to lay my hands on is "Yours Sincerely." Is it still available? In closing may I thank you for all the time and work that you put into your website which brings a great amount of pleasure to people around the world. Thank you .

Kind regards
--Barry

Editor's Note: Thanks for your nice letter. The album to which you may be referring was "Jim Reeves On Stage." It is derivative of a live recording made during a concert Jim did on a mountaintop in Pennsylvania in the rain! It is even more rare because Jim almost never granted permission for people to tape his shows. "Yours Sincerely" has not been re-released by RCA, but you maybe someone who visits this page will get in touch with you if they have an extra copy. Incidentally, there are two versions of this album that were released -- one in the U.S. and a longer version overseas. I have no idea why this was, although some of Jim's remarks were thought to be politically sensitive on the foreign version. -- Julie

From: "Jim Johnson" <jjohns@ipa.net>
Subject: SONG BY JR
Date: Mon, 3 Apr 2000 23:11:35 -0500

I have been a life long fan of Jim Reeves. I was so sorry to hear of the passing of his wife last year. I came to Nashville the Summer that the museum was closed for remodeling and did not get to come by to meet her...a great disappointment. I appreciate the work you are doing to honor the legacy of this great singer. I have almost all of Jim's records and the complete CD set from Bear Records. However, I have been unable to find a recording (other than video) of the song "Down in the Carribean". Is there an album or record containing this song that you know of??

A great fan,
--Jim Johnson

Editor's Note: Jim never recorded "Carribbean". He liked the song, but the writer, Mitch Torok (who also wrote "Mexican Joe") decided to keep the song for himself, and Fabor Robison -- who was both Jim's and Mitch's producer at the time, agreed. As you point out, however, Jim did sing the song on a country music film years ago that has been marketed on TV for years. There may be some obscure foreign release that contains the song, but I am personally not aware of one. -- Julie

Date: 2 April 2000
From: h649@scatcat.fhsu.edu
Subject: Johnny Horton's coat

I was reading about Johnny Horton loaning Jim a coat. I'm a Horton fan and am good friends with Tillman Franks. I was just down to visit Tillman and I asked him about it. He said he thought it was the last tour Johnny went on and Jim was on it too. He said it seemed to him like the Blue Boys' bus had been snowed in or something and I guess Jim's stage clothes were on it. He said Johnny loaned Jim his red jacket. He also told me that the day after Johnny was killed, Jim called and wanted to know if there was anything he could do.

--Johnny

From: "Lynn Hughes" <firefly@impulse.net> To: <juliecj@netins.net>
Subject: Africaan
Date: Sun, 2 Apr 2000 10:41:45 -0700

Hi. Many years ago, I had a record on which Jim sang two songs in Africaan. The record got broken and I have been looking for a replacement, but have not been able to find it. I don't remember the title. Am I dreaming or was there such a record? If so, where may I find a copy? Have any of Jim's Africaan songs been available on CD?

Thank you
--Lynn

Editor's Note: Several Reeves LPs over the years have had African songs on them. Where do I begin? Perhaps an ambitious fan out there will send in such a list. -- Julie

From: "A. Stam" <a.stam@indi.nl>
Date: Fri, 31 Mar 2000 21:55:57 +0200
Subject: Re: book on jim reeves

When I was over in the U.S. 2 years ago I was able to buy "Like A Moth to A Flame" by Michael Streissguth. There was a lot of fuss about this book from the Jim Reeves fans. I am not able to judge the accuracy of the contents since I did not know the man personally. [I've liked] his singing voice for over 40 years but that does not make me blind in believing that one who has a wonderfull voice has to be an angel. The Streissguth book did not change my opinion that since Jim Reeves' death, I never have heard such a wonderfull voice (I have all the records of Don Williams as well) .

Why does it take so long before the Larry Jordan book will be published?? Will it ever be published??

Thanks very much

--S. Stam

Editor's Note: The whole point behind the criticism of the Streissguth book is that many fans who don't know any better are unable to separate the truth from fiction. Streissguth's pseudo biography is not even close to truth by allegory. It's riddled with innumerable errors. And as I've said before, he relies on people who were on the periphery of Jim's life -- like Alex Zanetis -- as a source for a lot of his information. People like Joyce Jackson, Jim's longtime secretary, were never interviewed.

The Jordan book comprises over 400 taped interviews with people all over the world. It will be worth waiting for. -- Julie

--Don

Editor's Note: The album was called "Talkin' To Your Heart" and it featured the "Shifting, Whispering Sands." The other song to which your mother refers was not "Old Shep" (that was Red Foley's hit) but rather a song about a dog called "Old Tige." Hope this helps. -- Julie

From: "Harjan Beheer BV/ Mr. R.J. Vos FB" <harjan@euronet.nl>
Subject: The memory of Jim's songs
Date: Wed, 29 Mar 2000 23:26:56 +0200

I shall never forget what it meant for my brother, Lambert, and me, when we heard in 1964 of the death of Jim.

We were young, and really loved his songs. We even (especially my brother) wrote plays, in which we sung the songs of Jim.

Looking back, I still feel the warmth of the songs of Jim. My special memory is with "Old Tige"; a song I constantly can listen to, even when it's busy at times.

Thank you Jim for all the songs you have sung for us, and all the love we felt was there when you did sing it. Thank you, dear God, that now his wife has passed to you, we all may know that he lives happy forever.

--Roel Vos, (Holland)

Date: Fri, 17 Mar 2000 23:44:09 -0800
From: Wayne <kj4gy@icx.net>
Subject: My experience with Jim Reeves


Hello Fellow fans;
I loved to hear Jim on the Juke boxes in the early 1960s. I repaired Juke boxes at that time. He and Patsy Cline were two of the most listened to singers on the Juke box at that time.The juke boxes had a play counter so we could keep the records that played the most.

I talked to Mary about Jim when I visted the Jim reeves Museum. Mary informed me that Jim would pass by the home that [later became] the Museum and told Mary that someday he was going to purchase that home he love so much.

Best Regards
Wayne Newby (Knoxville,Tn.)

From: "Rosa Frank" <mandy@mega.co.za>
Subject: Jim Reeves - remembered
Date: Sun, 12 Mar 2000 14:54:13 +0200

I met Jim Reeves as a very young girl when he came to my country to appear in the movie "Kimberley Jim." I will never forget the way Jim made me feel so special, although he was the one that WAS special. We met him at the airport and he signed a handkerchief for me, as no other paper was available at that moment, but sadly my purse was stolen last year, in which I always carried that special hanky. Although faded and yellow, -never will Jim be. And when he sang in my mother tongue it was probably the most impressive thing he has ever done in his entire career. What an amazing entertainer he surely was. We as South Africans loved that man so much. We will always treasure the memories we have of Jim.

Bless you all.
--Rosa (South Africa)

Editor's Note: Thank you so very much for such a kind letter. Hope you tell all your friends about our efforts to keep Jim's music and memory alive.

From: "CJTimkey" <cjt@wzrd.com>
Subject: Trivia Question
Date: Sun, 12 Mar 2000 13:35:11 -0800

Hi. My name is Karen Timkey. I have been having on ongoing discussion of music trivia with a coworker. He recently asked me the trivia question: What do Hank Williams, Sr. and Jim Reeves have in common? Do you know the answer to this by any chance? It would be so helpful. Please email me at karentimkey@juno.com rather than replying to this email.

Thank you
--Karen Timkey

Editor's Note: Well, for one thing they both got their start on the famed "Louisiana Hayride" in Shreveport, La. They also were both accomplished songwriters as well as vocalists, who died too young. Let me know what his answer was. There are probably other similarities but those are the ones that came immediately to my mind. -- Julie

Date: Tue, 14 Mar 2000 00:52:08 -0500
From: steve vanasperen <stevevicki@mail.triton.net>
Subject: Memories of music

I decided to get on the net this evening, and as I did I found this site. Believe it or not, at this time I am listening to a CD of Jim's "The Legend Begins." I grew up with Jim's music in our home for as long as I can remember -- for over 40 years. Thank you to all who keep him alive in our hearts. He must have been a wonderful brother!

Vicky and Steve VanAsperen (Grand Rapids, Michigan)

Date: Tue, 14 Mar 2000 17:42:55 -0600
From: h649@scatcat.fhsu.edu
Subject: Re: Planes and guitars

Hello. I'm 25 and just recently discovering Jim Reeves and loving his music. I'm a big fan of Johnny Horton too. I'm also a pilot and wondering if you have any idea of how many flight hours Jim had at the time of the crash? Also, I'm a guitar nut and love Rickenbacker guitars which I see Jim and band using quite a bit of the time. Did Rickenbacker sponsor him or did Jim just love the Rickenbacker sound?

Thanks,
--John

Jim had just 200 hours of flight time, having flown slightly more than a year. He crashed in a Beechcraft Debonair, which was a fast, high-performance aircraft with a variable pitch propellor and retractable landing gear. He was not that accustomed to flying it. (He normally flew a Cessna 6-passenger, with the wing above. It was a much slower -- and some say safer -- plane for a novice pilot).

The Rickenbacker Company approached Jim and provided instruments for his band, amps, etc. in exchange for using Jim Reeves and the Blue Boys in their promotions. You may recall that had instruments at one point in a custom blue color. --Julie

--Terry Crowe

From: RWikky@cs.com
Date: Thu, 9 Mar 2000 04:48:22 EST
Subject: Jim Reeves

Hi there,

In 1964, just a couple of months before Jim died in a plane crash, I met him at the Airport in Amsterdam, while Jim, Chet Atkins, The Anita Kerr Singers and Bobby Bare came from Frankfurt to Holland to perform in a show in Amsterdam. As far as I remember, it was in March. I was 23 years old and Jim was my favourite. I had all his records and knew all his songs. By that time my English girlfriend said one day, "you love him more then you love me!"

For many years I kept Jim's autograph but I gave it away to the Dutch Jim Reeves Fanclub. This year I will go to U.S. in September, watch a show at the Grand Ole Opry and travel around for a while. I would like to visit Jim's grave. Could you let me know where I can find this? I'll be very greatful to you.

Warm regards,
--Gert Rösken

Editor's Note: Surely Arie den Dulk, who heads the unofficial Dutch fan club, would give the autograph back to you if you asked him. Presumably if he's showed it to fans, he has no further use for it anyway. It could just as well be back in your hands as in his private collection. As for Jim's memorial site, it is just outside Carthage, Texas -- which is about 35 miles southwest of Shreveport, Louisiana, where Jim got his big start on the "Louisiana Hayride" radio show. -- Julie

From: "Gary Cooper" <coop_45@hotmail.com>
Subject: Jim Reeves
Date: Sun, 5 Mar 2000 18:13:46 -0800

My mother absolutely loves Jim's music. Every chance I get to find one of his cassetes that she doesn't have (and there aren't many) I get them for her. He was a very special man. I remember growing up hearing his music daily. He had a beautiful voice.

Would it be possible to send her a photo of him?If so, please send it to Velma Billado 21 Elm Avenue Richford,Vt.05476.

Thank you.
Tammy- Richford Vt.

Editor's Note: Maybe some kind-hearted fan out there who has an extra picture of Jim will send your mother a copy. Let me know. -- Julie

Date: Sat, 4 Mar 2000 19:45:53 -0600
From: "Eric Slater" <blivit@earthlink.net>
Subject: LP's on CD, and the new book

Are they putting out any of Jim's original LP's on CD? I would be interested to know which ones and when. Also what is the latest news on the new book?

--Eric Slater

Editor's Note: Who know what BMG/RCA's plans may be with regard to issuing Jim's vinyl LPs on CD? They don't seem to care...

The book is nearing completion but could be a few months yet. There will also be a new CD out in tandem with the book. (Details to come). --Julie

Date: Sat, 04 Mar 2000 01:22:05 -0500
From: Melonie-Faye Frances <MelonieFaye@prodigy.net>
Subject: Legal Wrangle Over the Reeves Estate

You know, this entire saga is worthy of exposure. I was thinking (sometimes I think TOO much), if one of the news magazines like "20/20," "60 Minutes," "Prime Time Live" and many others would be interested in this story.?? It's just a thought...

Take care and God bless.
--Miz Melly

Editor's Note: Ironically, word has it that a major American media outlet has been looking into the case of Mary Reeves and interviewing the family, looking over court documents, etc. of late and may be doing an expose' in the coming months. Stay tuned! -- Julie

From: "lowriem" <martinlowrie@lowriem.freeserve.co.uk>
Date: Sat, 4 Mar 2000 02:07:02 -0000
Subject: The BBC Recording

Hello Julie,

I have just been trawling back through some of the postings in your letters column. I have spotted a posting from a gentleman who lives on this side of the Atlantic who was inquiring about the radio shows that the BBC put out in the early 80`s. I am afraid that the show was narrated by Charley Pride and not by the person you mentioned. He did a grand job on it and so did Mary. There are parts of the recording on your site, taken from a radio programme that you were kind enough to put out for us all the hear in streaming Real player.

Keep up the good work Julie!, and long may your site continue to spread the Reeves name.

--Martin Lowrie, Yorkshire, England

Editor's Note: Several variations of the show to which you refer have been assembled over the years, with George Hamilton IV, Charley Pride and Eddy Arnold serving as the narrators respectively, but with the content pretty much the same. (Some versions are longer than others).

Date: Sat, 4 Mar 2000 19:40:37 -0600
From: "Joanne Campbell" <joanne10@home.com>
Subject: Re: book

Years ago, I saw Mary Reeves on "Good Morning America" talking about a book she was writing about Jim -- I believe the title was something like "Behold My Sweet Valley." I can't find anything on this. Does such a book exist? What a wonderful singer he was -- taken far too soon.

--Joanne Campbell

According to Joyce Jackson, who worked for Jim for years and went on to work for Mary for 30 years, Mary was never on "Good Mornng America." The name "Behold..." does not correspond to any song that Jim recorded either. Perhaps you have Reeves confused with another singer? -- Julie

Date: Thu, 2 Mar 2000 17:16:06 -0600
From: "Chris and Michelle Hixon" <CHRICHELL@prodigy.net>
Subject: Re: RESEARCH HELP

My name is Chris Hixon and I am a freelance writer living in Louisville, Ky. I appreciate and concur with the sentiments you have expressed on this website regarding the smears against Jim's work and character.

I lived in Nashville during the early 1990's and worked in nearby Madison. I often visited the museum, particularly I discovered Mary's car out front. She was a great lady and ultimately the greatest tragedy in the Jim Reeves story is that she died without leaving any memoirs behind. A priceless source of information has been lost.

During one visit, Mary told me that Jim made a refueling stop before proceeding on to Nashville. At this location, an attendant at the airport produced a set of car keys and begged Jim to borrow his car. "Here are my keys," he said, "but DON'T FLY!" Who was he? Any information you could provide that might help me identify this man would be greatly appreciated.

--Chris Hixon

Editor's Note: There was no reason for Jim to make a stop at Dyersburg enroute to Nashville from Arkansas, as the route was only 215 statute miles and he surely had enough gasoline for that. Furthermore, the weather that day was still officially rated "VFR" -- well within the parameters Jim needed to continue visual flight. Jim DID get an advisory via RADIO from Dyersburg, but was NOT warned against proceeding at that point. In fact, what he ran into was an isolated shower barely 2 miles across, that was sitting just southwest of the Nashville airport. He encountered this in the final moments of his flight.

So I think you are confused and I doubt Mary would have ever told you that story. This sounds a lot like what happened to Randy Hughes, Patsy Cline's pilot. Indeed, he DID make a stop at Dyersburg, and was offered the use of a stationwagon to travel the rest of the way home instead of attempting to proceed with his flight. He made the fatal error to continue. -- Julie

Date: Sun, 27 Feb 2000 10:56:28 -0600
From: Adam <truscott@newshunter.yi.org>
Subject: Re: Song Title

I am wondering if you would know the title of a song by Jim Reves which I have forgotten . Some of the words go like this: "You have never walked in that mans shoes or seen things through his eyes or stood and watched while the heart inside you dies"...

I do hope you can help me with this.

Regards.
--Adam Truscott

Editor's Note: I believe the song is "Men With Broken Hearts," found on his "Talkin' To Your Heart" album... -- Julie

Date: Sun, 27 Feb 2000 10:54:41 -0600
From: "Debbie Foster" <foster@seldenfox.com>
Subject: Children of Jim Reeves

Is country music singer Julie Reeves related to Jim Reeves? His daughter, granddaughter, perhaps? Could you give me information on the children of Jim Reeves? Also, where did he live? Julie Reeves is from Ashland, Kentucky (same as Wynonna Judd!). Just curious about any relation to Jim Reeves, can't find any info anywhere.

Thanks!
--Debbie

Editor's Note: Jim Reeves and his wife Mary had no children. They were both from Texas and married there, before moving to Shreveport, La., and later to Nashville. A lot of people also wonder whether Ronna Reeves, the gorgeous and talented singer who used to be on the Statler Brother's Show on TNN is any relation to Jim. But she is not. She IS from Texas just like Jim, however, and is one of the more versatile singers in the biz (in addition to being one of the sweetest). She was typecast in Nashville, however, and has left country music for the pop field, and work with Peter Cetera. -- Julie

Date: Sun, 27 Feb 2000 10:53:21 -0600
From: "janine McCallum" <ssloggett@optusnet.com.au>
Subject: Jim Reeves early years

Could you tell me what years did Jim Reeves attended the University of Texas and if possible who was the name of the COACH of the University baseball team? Thank you for your time.

Kindest regards,
--Stephen Sloggett.

Editor's Note: Contrary to popular myth, there is no evidence that Jim ever attended the University of Texas (or any other college, for that matter). He DID, however, receive a baseball scholarship, along with two of his fellow teammates on the outstanding Carthage High School baseball team of 1942. He also went to enroll during the second mid-Summer semester. However, when informed by the admission's office that the scholarship would not commence until the fall, Reeves (who incorrectly assumed he was likely to be drafted) and a buddy returned home, unable to find work to support themselves in Austin during the interim. It is a mystery why he never went to college -- AND why he claimed that he did. Certainly even in those days, Jim was ordinarily not the sort of person who would turn his back on any opportunity to advance his course through life.

Jim was a self-educated man who was successful at convincing others that he had attended college when, in fact, he had not. -- Julie

From: james4wri@webtv.net (James Wright)
Date: Mon, 21 Feb 2000 16:50:26 -0800 (PST)
Subject: JIM REEVES

My great-grandmother was a big fan of Jim Reeves from 1977 until she passed away in 1991 at the age of 95. I can honestly say that rarely a day went by that a record from Jim Reeves wasn't heard playing in her home.

Also in 1977 I remember a stereo repair man came by her home to fix her record player, and I also remember some of the stories this person told about Jim (all good of course).

This man stated that his wife was Jim's first cousin along with the fact that at that time Jim Reeves' mother had not that long been passed away. I tell this story not in the hopes of involving this woman in any of the 'turmoil' that now exist among certain family members associated with Jim Reeves. I don't even remember the repairman's name save that he lived with his wife in a town in Northern California by the name of Oroville. This town is 65 miles north of Sacramento, CA.

I enjoy all of the information and research on your web site about Jim Reeves life and musical career. Even now after all of these years that've passed he's still missed. Thank you.

--James Todd Wright

From: bmk.jek@mindspring.com
Date: Mon, 21 Feb 2000 19:13:18 -0500
Subject: Mary

Although I play Jim Reeves' music all the time, I do not visit the website on a regular basis. Therefore, I did not know that his widow, Mary, passed away. I was so sorry to hear that she is gone, but feel blessed for the fine tribute she carried through the years on behalf of her beloved husband's memory and music. I first fell in love with Jim Reeves' music when I was in my very early 20s, and have been enjoying his timeless music for almost 25 years. And we owe nobody but Mary the credit for keeping his voice alive.

On this most recent visit to the website, it was enjoyable to see faces of his sisters, his nieces and other family and friends. I don't think all of this was added when I visited the last time.

I praise the Reeves family and other close supporters for carrying on the efforts that Mary began so long ago. With your fine dedication and work, Jim and Mary will be alive in our hearts for many years to come.

--Barb Kuhn

Date: Thu, 17 Feb 2000 23:05:55 -0600
From: "Jim Chaffin" <jchaffin@networld.com>
Subject: Lucky Me

I guess I've been a fan of Mr. Reeves most of my life (50 years next week), but then again I've been a fan of so many acts...from Nino & April To Abba...from Air Supply to Electric Light Orchestra. Anyway, I was very fortunate to receive in the mail yesterday "The Intimate Jim Reeves" CD which I had ordered through Amazon.com. I have thousands of LPs and CDs in my collection, but I must say that this particular CD (it's an import) is absolutely immaculate!! The material has been re-mastered to perfection, and Jim was at the top of his game when this was recorded.

I've never written a note to a website before, but this CD is so d--- good, I just couldn't resist. I cannot recommend this beautiful work of art highly enough. I also noticed that a new CD called "Gentleman Jim Reeves" (perhaps a double CD) on Double Gold Records is due for release on 22 February 2000. Any info on the contents?

Thank you very much for listening to my opinion. I'm not always right...but in this case, I ain't wrong. Every song is a genuine masterpiece...and I didn't think anyone could do "Take Me In Your Arms And Hold Me" better than Eddy Arnold.

--Jim Chaffin (Salt Lake City, Utah)

Editor's Note: "The Intimate Jim Reeves" is indeed a fine set, and it's nice BMG/RCA got around to issuing this on CD. As for the "Gentleman Jim Reeves" release you mentioned, I have no information on it. But I'd be willing to bet it's just the same old same old. Every Tom, Dick and Harry can make a buck (legally or otherwise) by repackaging -- not even bothering to put a new picture on the cover. Meanwhile, unreleased material by Jim languishes in the vaults... -- Julie

Date: Thu, 17 Feb 2000 22:36:51 -0600
From: westay43@swbell.net
Subject: help

I need help in identifying and locating a recording by Jim Reeves and some female singer. I don't remember the name of the female artist or the name of the song. All I remember is a line from the lyrics:

"I give to you and you give to me, true love... true love."

If you can help me identify the song, or which CD I can find it on, I would appreciate it very much.

Thank you.
--Wes Taylor

Editor's Note: Jim did not record "True Love," but Patsy Cline did -- as well as many other artists. Perhaps you heard a duet by a couple of them. -- Julie

Date: Thu, 20 Jan 2000 23:38:03 -0600
From: Thomas Lucker <tlucker@swbell.net>
Subject: Re: the only fan-site sponsored by the Reeves family

...I know that not to be true. I've seen other sites with endorsements of the Reeves family.

If you're a friend of the Reeves [family], why doesn't John Rex Reeves, the best singing member of the Reeves Family have a prominent link on your page? Print that if you will.

---Tom Lucker, Houston, Tx

Editor's Note: I am still THE ONLY site endorsed by the family -- i.e., enough members of it to constitute a consensus by any reasonable standard. Look a little closer at the other site and you'll see that their "endorsement" comes from only ONE "member" of the Reeves clan -- a man who was but a grandnephew of Jim's, was a toddler when Jim died, and never knew the singer.

As long as the webmaster of the other site leaves up this FALSE claim that he is "officially endorsed" by memberS -- plural -- of the family, thus sewing confusion, fans can see for themselves the sort of disregard for the truth that the other site has so often evinced.

My site is the ONLY one that has the endorsement of both of Jim Reeves' surviving sisters as well as key members of the family and Jim's most intimate associates, like his secretary Joyce Jackson. To read a list, click here. The other webmaster probably doesn't even know their names, how or where to get ahold of them.

I know for a fact that the Reeves family sent an email challenging the webmaster as to his claim to being endorsed by them, but he sent a reply saying "I do not want to discuss the matter of the endorsement any further with you." Actually, he didn't "discuss" it at all, he dodged it. He did not give any explanation for why he claims memberS endorse him, or tell who they are. He's playing a word game and misleading fans.

He claimed he has not endorsed the Michael Streissguth pseudo biography on Jim, and dismissively lectured the Reeves family to "read my lips." However, the fact is that the ONLY review of the book on his site is a POSITIVE one, that once again is plagued by misstatements.

He further pointed out that "My site does not concern itself with anything other than the memory and career of Jim Reeves...not ...his wife and the problems of his family members." He concluded by telling Jim Reeves' family "If you don't like this, then don't visit the website." Can you believe the arrogance? Why does this guy even have a site up on Jim Reeves if he doesn't care about the truth or what happens to Jim's musical legacy?

Of course, what happens in the court case filed by the Reeves family to right the wrongs done to Mary has A LOT to do with whether or not Jim's fans will be able to hear future releases by him. So the disposition of Jim's estate is VERY RELEVANT and this is why I cover it.

Only people suffering from myopia wouldn't understand that.

As for John Rex Reeves, I have spotlighted him in the past, including a link. (Such a link was only recently added to the other site). But as news items are updated, old material moves to the bottom of the "What's News" page. Anyone interested in John can find him at www.johnrexreeves.com My husband and I consider John Rex a friend, (though he has made it clear he does not wish to endorse ANY site, regardless of what his son may do). When John releases his much-anticipated CD, I have expectations of covering it. After all, he's the only TRUE Reeves and nephew of Jim's who has a singing career. (Contrary to how he bills himself, the Rev. Bill White hasn't been a nephew of Jim's for 30 years -- ever since his late Aunt Mary remarried).

From: TERIMM@aol.com
Date: Mon, 24 Jan 2000 01:02:58 EST
Subject: JIM REEVES

I have been a Jim Reeves fan since I can remember. I have 12 original albums. I would like to replace them with CDs. I would like your help in this. I would also like tohelp keep the Jim Reeves story alive. He is without a doubt the greatest country singer.

--(Unsigned)

Date: Mon, 24 Jan 2000 09:57:47 -0600
From: "Eric Slater" <blivit@earthlink.net>
Subject: Re: Jim Reeves Biography

Is there any news on the new Jim Reeves Bio that you've been mentioning for months? Also, is there any news on any original JR albums coming out on CD?

--Eric Slater

Editor's Note: The biography is reportedly about 90% done. There are many new people who have come forward or been located who knew Jim and/or Mary, and thus have been interviewed on tape for the book for the first time. So it's taken longer than anticipated. But it should be worth waiting for! Remember, if anyone has anything they'd like to contribute to the book -- be it photos, anecdotes, or other information, you can email the author here.

No more news on Jim Reeves albums coming out on CD. RCA "may" be doing something like that, since they did two last year ("We Thank Thee" and "The Intimate Jim Reeves", both now on CD). But it really is anybody's guess. Thanks for writing! -- Julie

Date: Sat, 22 Jan 2000 14:16:31 -0600
From: Frank-eila <frank-eila@xtra.co.nz>
Subject: Re: jim

I don't know much about the history of Jim Reeves but I have all of his records and I play them all the time. I myself class him world best. Now some questions: Did he love his wife? How many children in the family? How much money did he leave? What was his estate worth and why all the fuss over his estate? Myself I think it is a shame the way they are treating the whole affair. I am 76 and I think he is the best. Some of his songs really get to you. How many did he write himself?

--Frank Bird, Foxton Beach, New Zealand

Hello and thank you for your letter from "Down Under." Jim and his wife Mary were very close. In fact, they even went on a "honeymoon" every year. If Jim had to be away from his wife for more than two weeks at a time, he sent for her, and she would either drive to where he was, or fly halfway across the world.

They had no children.

I do not know how much Jim's estate was worth when he died, but after Mary reached an out-of-court settlement with Barbara Manuel (the wife of the man who was killed with Jim, and who sued the Reeves estate), Mary was said to have been nearly broke. Although he had a will, Jim did not have life insurance, and the IRS took the actual cash. Mary DID have Jim's records, but even the profits from those were tied up for months before being legally settled.

As you know, for many years after Jim's passing, Mary continued to release his recordings, including things that he had done that had not been previously issued. By 1986, Jim Reeves had sold 180 million records worldwide. Since then, of course, many more have been sold.

It is indeed a shame how the estate has been tied up in such an embarrassing and distasteful legal wrangle. But you have to realize that Jim wished for the proceeds from the continued sale of his records to acrue to his family. Mary also had a will that said she wanted what money she made divided between Jim's family and hers. Instead, some people outside the immediate families have made off like bandits.

Unfortunately, her second marriage (to Terry Davis) was a very troubled one. Even before she became ill, Mary's standing in Nashville was tarnished by some of the things she had allowed herself to become involved in by virtue of Davis's wild schemes, and which reflected unfavorably on her. Then when she became ill, Davis saw an opportunity to gain control of Mary's finances for his own benefit, as clearly established in court by his various machinations. Ultimately, of course, the ugly truth about this matter -- and the role various people have played in it -- will see the light of day.

In the meantime, to read the history of the case, look at the newspaper reprints in the "About Mary" section of this site. Also, you can go back and read the posts (in chronological order -- the most recent at the top) in the What's News section. -

As for how many songs Jim wrote, perhaps someone out there can give us a total? -- Julie

From: AALukowski@aol.com
Date: Fri, 21 Jan 2000 07:06:20 EST
Subject: Jim and Mary

Hi... My name is Astrid. I really don't have a question, just a comment. I have always been a Jim Reeves fan mainly because of my parents who have now both died of cancer. My mother was in labor with me when she heard Jim Reeves had died so I was born on July 31,1964. Both my mother and I felt that there was something special about that.

I was actualy born in Arnhem,Holland. And I am letting you know this so that you know that Jim was also very popular in Holland when he died.

I just want to say that it makes me happy that there are people like you out there keeping his memory and the truth alive. I just found out that he will have a book out and I plan to get it. I was really upset when I heard what had happened to Mary, it just goes to show you that there is scum everywhere. But Jim's memory really didnt exist in a material way anyway. Her new hubby might have been just a little envious of Jim's goodness and talent. So this note was just to say thanks for being there :-)

Please let me know of any new developments in the case...

--Astrid

Editor's Note: I appreciate your kind words and thank you for writing! -- Julie

Date: Fri, 21 Jan 2000 23:13:17 -0800
From: Kenneth Bendig <BetKen@worldnet.att.net>
Subject: Your latest news about the case

It's gone from bad to worse! I have to admit I don't understand it all, I only know it's a crime against two wonderful people who brought so much pleasure to our lives. How can this happen to their legacy!? I know I will have continuous pleasure from Jim for the rest of my life since he's almost the only one I listen to now, and the only one I still collect even though I do have all his songs. I say "almost" because once in a while something special comes along. I'm talking about a tape of Cindy Walker songs, and I think, but am not sure, that she sings them herself. Jim recorded four of the songs, and there are other pretty ones that are easy to listen to. You probably have that tape.

Do you think the situation will ever be resolved satisfactorily? It looks so terrible.

I can only hope that this awful situation has hit bottom and will head upward so there will be better news for all of us who love and care about Jim & Mary

--Betty Bendig

Editor's Note: Does anyone know what Cindy Walker tape Betty is talking about?

As for whether or not this case will ever be resolved, it does look like the momentum is with the truth. Thousands of Reeves fans around the world are watching closely and their judgment -- more perhaps than any court's -- will mean a lot. -- Julie