Ralph “Gene” Eugene Reynolds, born November 16, 1932, in Centralia, Illinois, peacefully passed away on Thursday, December 12, 2024, at the age of 92 at the HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon, Illinois. Gene lived a long and fulfilling life, characterized by dedication to his family, community, and his passions.
Gene spent 25 years as a purchasing agent for Peerless Premier, where his work ethic and commitment were highly valued. His true passions, however, were beyond his professional life. Gene was an avid theater enthusiast and spent many years coaching baseball and basketball, imparting life lessons to the youth of his community. In his younger days, he enjoyed bowling and was always a loyal fan of his family’s various pursuits, offering unwavering support and encouragement. A life well celebrated, Gene will be remembered for his cheerful and engaging personality.
Gene is survived by his devoted partner, JoAnn Brave of O’Fallon, Illinois. His legacy is carried forward by his four beloved children, Ben Reynolds (Mary) of Pleasant Plains, Illinois, Susan Reynolds (Jerry Hagen) of San Diego, California, Joe Reynolds (Emma) of San Diego, California, and Peter Reynolds (Brandon McShaffrey) of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He is also survived by his four stepchildren, Michael Brave of St. Louis, Missouri; Rollie Brave (Bonnie) of O’Fallon, Illinois; Steve Brave (Kim) of Marion; and Carol Balding (Mike) of Marion.
Gene’s family also includes his daughters-in-law, Irma Reynolds of Champaign, Illinois, and Lisa Brave of Highland. His cherished grandchildren were constant sources of joy, and he delighted in his role as a great-grandfather, with one great-grandchild already here and one on the way. Gene shared a close bond with his brother-in-law, Jim Hensley of Centralia, and his sister-in-law, Gerry Morgan (Jerry) of Montgomery, Alabama. His nieces, Norma Kramer and Sue Backstein of Decatur, also held a special place in his heart. A special thanks to his caregiver angel, Christina Shaak.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Letha Reynolds; his loving wife, Barbara Reynolds; his son, Paul Reynolds; his sister, Betty Hensley; and two brothers-in-law and one sister-in-law.
A memorial service honoring Gene’s life will be held on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at 11:00 AM at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia, Illinois with Monsignor David Darin officiating. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, leading up to the service. Gene will be laid to rest at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Centralia, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to HSHS Hospice 900 West Temple, Suite 101 Effingham IL, 62401, and will be accepted at Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home and Cremation Services, located at 235 North Sycamore Street, Centralia, Illinois 62801, who is honored to be of service to Gene’s Family. For further inquiries, please call (618)532-3523. Those wishing to extend their condolences online can visit www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com or the Funeral Home Facebook page, celebrating Gene’s remarkable life and the love he shared with all who knew him.
