Samuel Nowlin Reeves Jr. holds a unique place in history as the father of beloved Hollywood actor Keanu Reeves. His life, though largely away from the limelight, has fascinated many due to his complex journey and influence on Keanu’s formative years. This article delves deep into the life of Samuel Nowlin Reeves Jr., exploring his background, career, personal struggles, and relationship with his family.
Profile Summary
Category | Details |
---|---|
Date of Birth | September 13, 1942 |
Place of Birth | Oahu, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA |
Date of Death | January 26, 2018 |
Age at Death | 75 years |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | Mixed (Portuguese-American-Chinese-Irish-English) |
Profession | Farmer, Geologist |
Education | Studied geology at American University in Lebanon |
Marital Status | Married thrice |
Spouses | Patricia Taylor (m. 1964; div. 1966) |
Children | Keanu Reeves, Kim Reeves, Emma Rose Reeves |
Parents | Samuel Nowlin Reeves Sr., Sarah Momilani Victor |
Siblings | Victor Kauluwehionalani Reeves, Gill Moler Reeves |
Hair Color | Dark Brown |
Eye Color | Dark Brown |
Religion | Buddhist |
Early Life and Background
Samuel Nowlin Reeves Jr. was born on September 13, 1942, in Oahu, Honolulu, Hawaii. Growing up in a family of mixed ethnic heritage, he carried the influence of Portuguese, Chinese, Irish, and English ancestry. This diverse background painted a rich tapestry of cultural identity that became a hallmark of his lineage.
Samuel’s parents, Samuel Nowlin Reeves Sr. and Sarah Momilani Victor, were instrumental in shaping his early life. He shared his childhood with two siblings, Victor Kauluwehionalani Reeves and Gill Moler Reeves. Hawaii’s serene landscapes and vibrant culture left an indelible mark on Samuel, though his journey eventually took him far from home.

Education and Career
Though much of Samuel’s career remains in the shadows, his academic path showed promise. He pursued geology at the American University in Lebanon, reflecting a keen interest in understanding the Earth’s processes. While his professional ventures as a geologist and farmer didn’t bring him fame, they demonstrated his connection to nature and science.
Samuel’s contributions to his fields of expertise remain understated, much like his life. His work in agriculture and geology, however, played a role in supporting his family during his early years.
Personal Life
Samuel Nowlin Reeves Jr.’s personal life was as eventful as it was turbulent. In 1964, he married Patricia Taylor, a British costume designer. Their union brought forth two children: Keanu Reeves, born in 1964, and Kim Reeves, born in 1966. While the couple divorced in 1966, these early years set the foundation for Samuel’s legacy as a father.
Later, Samuel remarried twice, fathering additional children, including Emma Rose Reeves. However, his relationships with his spouses and children were often marred by distance and estrangement.
Struggles with Addiction and Legal Issues
One of the most challenging aspects of Samuel’s life was his battle with substance abuse. His struggles with addiction led to a significant rift between him and his family, particularly with Keanu. Legal troubles and personal demons further isolated him, making reconciliation difficult in his later years.
Relationship with Keanu Reeves
The estranged relationship between Samuel Nowlin Reeves Jr. and his son, Keanu, remains a poignant chapter in their lives. Samuel’s absence during Keanu’s formative years significantly impacted the actor, who often described his father’s departure as a void in his childhood.
Despite the distance, Samuel was aware of Keanu’s meteoric rise in Hollywood. While their relationship never fully mended, the complex dynamics between father and son serve as a reminder of the challenges families face.
Keanu, known for his resilience and grounded nature, has rarely spoken about his father in detail. When he has, it has often been with a sense of closure rather than resentment. Samuel’s absence played a part in shaping Keanu’s outlook on life, love, and relationships.
Later Years and Death
In his later years, Samuel Nowlin Reeves Jr. faced significant health challenges, including diabetes and Grave’s disease. These conditions, coupled with his estranged family relationships, marked a quiet and reflective period in his life.
Samuel passed away on January 26, 2018, at the age of 75. His death brought attention to his life story, particularly his role in shaping one of Hollywood’s most enigmatic stars. While his time on Earth ended quietly, the legacy of his lineage continues to captivate fans and historians alike.
Reflection on Samuel Nowlin Reeves Jr.’s Legacy

Samuel Nowlin Reeves Jr.’s life is a testament to the complexities of human relationships. His struggles, achievements, and connections with his family paint a picture of a man who lived in the shadows yet left an indelible mark on those around him.
His mixed heritage and journey from Hawaii to distant lands highlight the diversity of experiences that shape a person’s story. Samuel’s life may not have been one of fame, but it was certainly one of significance, especially to those who shared his bloodline.
FAQs
Who was Samuel Nowlin Reeves Jr.?
Samuel Nowlin Reeves Jr. was a geologist and farmer best known as the father of actor Keanu Reeves. He was born in Hawaii and led a life filled with cultural richness, personal struggles, and familial connections.
What was Samuel Nowlin Reeves Jr.’s ethnicity?
Samuel had a mixed ethnic background, including Portuguese, Chinese, Irish, and English ancestry.
When did Samuel Nowlin Reeves Jr. pass away?
Samuel Nowlin Reeves Jr. passed away on January 26, 2018, at the age of 75.
Did Samuel Nowlin Reeves Jr. have other children besides Keanu Reeves?
Yes, Samuel had additional children, including Kim Reeves and Emma Rose Reeves.
What was Samuel Nowlin Reeves Jr.’s profession?
Samuel worked as a geologist and farmer during his lifetime.
What were Samuel Nowlin Reeves Jr.’s health issues?
In his later years, Samuel faced health challenges, including diabetes and Grave’s disease.
What was the relationship like between Samuel Nowlin Reeves Jr. and Keanu Reeves?
Their relationship was distant, as Samuel was largely absent from Keanu’s life during his formative years. This estrangement influenced Keanu’s outlook on family and life.
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