Jesse Scott “Scotty” Eaves
Jesse Scott “Scotty” Eaves, a resident of Denham Springs, passed away at the age of 82 on Monday, November 21, 2022, at his home surrounded by his family. “You only get one chance to do it right the first time” – Jesse Scott Eaves.
Today he was released from this world to begin his next journey. He definitely got it right the first time. Jesse Scott Eaves was born August 25, 1940 to Kate and Carl Eaves. He was a 1958 graduate of Denham Springs High School. Upon graduation he proudly served aboard the USS Platte, a refueling ship serving the Pacific fleet from 1958-1962, where he began a lifelong love and knowledge of fancy rope and knot work. Scotty, aka “The Knot Man”, became one of the most renowned experts in this unique art form. After an honorable discharge from the Navy, he returned home to Denham Springs, married Betty Ann Rushing, and began working for Coco Laminating where he discovered a unique talent for woodworking. After leaving Coco Laminating, he had a long career with Ethyl Corporation, then briefly worked at Southern Laminating, and finished his career at the USS Kidd. Along the way, Scotty built his own home (from construction to furniture) and served as Lecter at St. Williams Catholic Church in Port Vincent for many years. He gave countless volunteer hours to the USS Kidd and helped innumerable people with their personal projects; he was always giving his time and talent to others. Scotty is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Betty Ann Rushing Eaves; his daughter Valarie Eaves-Baker and husband Jason; his son Jim Eaves and wife Vickie; his youngest daughter Lara Eaves Hutchinson and husband Brian; his grandchildren: Sara-Ann Pierson, Seth-Lee Langley and wife Destiny, Jason Paul Baker and wife Billie, Jon-Clark Baker, Ashleigh Eaves, Gabrielle Eaves-Hull and husband Michael, Courtney Hutchinson, Joshua Hutchinson; and great grandchildren: Ada, Auden, Dallas, Kinleigh, Jaxon, Georgia, and Wyatt. He is preceded in death by his parents Carl and Sarah Kate Davis Eaves; his siblings: Joe, Merlin, Royce, and Oris Eaves; and his best friend Vernon Andrews. Scotty’s greatest loves were his wife Betty Ann, his children and grandchildren, fancy ropework, classical music, books, the USS Kidd, and the sea. He was truly one of a kind and sacrificed much for his family. His knowledge and craftmanship will never be matched. He is loved dearly and will be missed forever by those whose lives he touched. The family would like to send its gratitude to his nurse Kim and Clarity Hospice. Donations can be made in Memory of Jesse Eaves to the USS Kidd Veterans Museum Restoration Project, 305 South River Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70802. A private memorial service will be held at a later date.