Leslie Jane (Sphar) Reeves, age 45 of Troy, IL, born June 26, 1976, in Town & Country, MO, passed away on November 25, 2021.  She was loved deeply and will be missed infinitely by her family and many friends.

Leslie was known for her beautiful smile, living life to the fullest, and helping others.  Her greatest joy was her children and her time with them was the happiest times of her life.

She is survived by her children, Lawson and Larkin, her parents, Lynette (Petish-Sphar) Grothe of Collinsville, IL, and Richard (Gail) Sphar of Franklin, TN, her sister (Heather), brother-in-law (Curt), and niece (Hope).  She is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends, including her best friend of more than 30 years, Shelly, who shared many adventures and special life moments with Leslie, the highlight being the births of each other's children.

Some of Leslie's favorite hobbies throughout her life were dancing, exercising, art, collecting shoes, travel, cats, and listening to 80s music.

Leslie excelled academically and went from being a proud Kahok to a Miner to a Jayhawk.  After attending Collinsville High where she especially enjoyed being a Kahok cheerleader, she received her Bachelor of Science in Engineering degree from the University of Missouri Rolla.  She then went on to receive her Master of Science in Engineering degree from the University of Kansas.  She worked as a petroleum engineer in the years before she decided to take an opportunity that would allow her to serve others and make a positive impact in her community.  Most recently, she was doing this work through her business, All You Studio & Party Place.

One of Leslie's favorite songs was "Sweet Child O' Mine" by Guns N' Roses and starts with some fitting lyrics, "She's got a smile that it seems to me reminds me of childhood memories where everything was as fresh as the bright blue sky."

A private service is planned.

Memorials may be made to an education fund for Leslie's children at St. John Neumann Catholic School in Maryville, IL, through the Greater Giving site using the link: Click Here or please make a check payable to the organization and mail to the funeral home at 2800 N. Center Street, Maryville, IL 62062.

Another special way to honor Leslie would be to reach out with help to someone in need or do a random act of kindness.

Leslie, may the Lord bless you and keep you and give you peace.  –Numbers 6:24-26