Donald "John" Reynolds

Donald “John” Reynolds of York, Maine, died peacefully at Brigham & Women's Hospital on Monday, February 19, 2024, after a long illness, with his family by his side. We would like to express our gratitude for the exceptional care John received from the wonderful staff of Brigham & Women's Hospital, Dana Farber and York Hospital.

John was born in Redruth, England on August 23, 1947, the son of Lewis “Don” Reynolds and C. Christine Reynolds. After the war, the family immigrated to the United States in 1952, settling at Knoxland Farm in Weare, NH, owned by his Aunt Barb and Uncle Leslie Knox. John attended Weare Elementary School, Weare High School, NH Technical College and ultimately served four years in the US Navy on the USS Somers. John furthered his education at Franklin Pierce College, ultimately earning a Bachelors Degree Upon his return from the Navy, John married Donna Pedeare in 1972. The couple built their first home in John’s hometown of Weare, subsequently moving to Bow, NH and then settling in York, ME in 1992, “their favorite place on earth”. He was employed for many years by Northern Telecom and travelled extensively in that position. After early retirement he established Reynolds Property Services (RPS) with his son Jeremy and became involved in property management. He also assisted his son Corey with Reynolds & Sons Lawncare. The part he loved best about his involvement with RPS and Reynolds & Sons was meeting the local people and spending time with his beloved sons. He formed great relationships within our community that have continued for decades. Those who know John describe him as “always having a smile” and a good sense of humor.

John truly enjoyed family time--skiing, boating, fishing and just being together. Summer months were spent fishing with his boys...endlessly in search of the “big one”, watching fireworks from the boat, and taking the boat to Perkins Cove for lunch. During the winter wonderful memories were made at the family’s home at Bretton Woods. They spent winter weekends, school vacations and magical Christmas Holidays there. The rule there was, “if there was snow, you were on your skis”. In recent years he has become a reluctant horse owner/lover, supporting Alicia in riding and competitions. He truly enjoyed watching her ride and spending time with other “horse” parents and riders.

John was a real family man, he loved his family. He considered himself fortunate that all members of our immediate family lived here in York, which has been really important during the last few years of his ill health. He has set a fine example for our family as a loving, hardworking, compassionate and responsible, gentle man. He was always there when his family needed him.

John is survived by his wife, Donna M. Reynolds, children Julian Corey Reynolds, Jeremy C. Reynolds (and wife Jenna) and Alicia J. Reynolds; grandchildren, Julian C. Reynolds, Brody J. Reynolds, Isla R. Reynolds, Oliver R. Reynolds and Luca R. Reynolds, all of York; his sister, Gloria McAllister of Boscawen, NH and her family; and his brother, David Reynolds of Bow, NH and his family. John was extremely proud of and loved his children and grandchildren.

The family expresses a heartfelt thanks to all of our supportive relatives, friends, neighbors, community members, medical professionals, and especially to Dr. Joaquim Havens and Dr. Mirela Havens who supported us through these last few years and have continued to support us during the challenging time. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to one of his favorite charities, York Community Food Pantry, 855 US-1, York, ME 03909 (207-363-5504), Post Office Box 180, York, ME 03909.

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