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Roger Reynolds Obituary
Roger Lee Reynolds, 64, of Provo, passed away on March 4, 2013 at home surrounded by his loving wife and family. He was born October 11, 1948, the son of Bill and Naomi Reynolds in Hemet, California. He served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the British South Mission from 1968 through 1970. He married Deborah Hanvey on January 29, 1971 in the Los Angeles California LDS Temple.
He spent his career working in the college bookstore industry, working at BYU, Deseret Book, University of Utah, Stanford University, Cornell University, and Ingram Book Company, before returning to BYU in 1999 as Director of the BYU Bookstore.
Roger was a hardworking and kind man who loved his family and friends with all his heart. He was a bit of a prankster who especially loved spending time with his grandchildren…they have fond memories of him playing with them, having water-balloon fights, and going on memorable vacations. He always had a big infectious smile and a twinkle in his eye. All those who knew him, especially his family, knew how much he loved them and how much he loved the gospel of Jesus Christ. He set an amazing example for everyone he knew, and all those who met him, no matter how briefly, felt honored to have him in their lives. He was always ready and eager to help anyone in need. He also served diligently in his church callings, including as a bishop and branch president.
He is survived by his wife Debbi and children Scott (Adrea), Kim, and Kelsey Jeffs (Michael), and by his four grandchildren, Avalee, Sadie, Boede, and Lily. He is also survived by his sister Joan Gale (Nord), brother Harold (Nancy), sister-in-law Randy, and lots of loving cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Ralph.
A special thanks to the staff, doctors, and nurses at Huntsman Cancer Institute, as well as to other caregivers and friends who helped support him. Your hard work, compassion and friendship meant so much to him. Also, thanks to Serenicare Funeral Home for all their special help at this time.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 9th from 11am-noon at the LDS Chapel located at 555 East 3230 North Provo UT 84604. Viewings will be held at the same location on Friday, March 8th from 6-7:30p.m. and Saturday, March 9th from 9:30-10:30a.m. Interment will follow later that day at the Salt Lake City Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made in his honor to the Huntsman Cancer Institute.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Roger Reynolds
Kelsey Jeffs
April 1, 2013
I am forever grateful to have had such a wonderful father. I know how lucky I am, because Roger was truly the best man I've ever met and his was an amazing dad... I miss him so much, but am grateful for the time we had together, especially that he was able to be at my wedding and that we were able to have that long awaited daddy/daughter dance. I am so thankful that I know I'll be with him again... he taught me so much and loved so much. Miss you dad.... and I love you.
Bruce and LouRee McGill
March 12, 2013
Debbi, Scott, Kim and Kelsey... we are so sad to learn or Roger's passing. We have so many wonderful memories of Roger and you as his family. I was privileged to have had some Facebook communication with him not to long ago where he mentioned that he was ill put gave no details. We have thought of him and you so much since then. He was so kind, helpful and fun to be with. He always made our visit to the BYU bookstore fun at ED Week. We will cherish our memories of being neighbors and friends in West Jordan, Utah. He was truly a great man and example to us all. We love you.
Mark and Dorothy McDonough
March 11, 2013
We were sad to hear of Roger's passing. Our lives were better because we knew him and you, Debbi, and your amazing kids. We remember him as happy, kind, caring, and generous. How fortunate we are to have known you both over the years which have gone so fast! Our testimony added to yours is that he is in a better place still being the kind, gentle soul he is and probably sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. His life certainly exemplified his testimony of the Savior. Our sympathy and love to you and your family at this tender time.
Anne Jensen
March 10, 2013
Dear Reynolds family, I received word of Roger's passing from Sharon and Frank Heiss. I do remember the Reynolds when they lived in Fremont Stake and helped some at Stanford Bookstore when he was working there. May your family be blessed in all the ways you need at this tender time.
Aaron White
March 10, 2013
I knew Roger and the Reynolds family growing up in Ithaca and had the privilege of continuing our friendship during my years as a student at BYU. Roger was one of the kindest men I've known. I particularly recall the help he gave me while I was at BYU- whether it was taking care of my car while I was out of the country for an internship, or writing letters of recommendation for graduate schools and internships. He was always willing to help. I feel fortunate to have known him. And I'm grateful, as I know his family is, for the knowledge that we'll all be reunited with loved ones after death because of Heavenly Father's Plan. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Emily Beth Colton
March 9, 2013
Debbie, Scott and family, I worked for Roger as manger of the general book department at the Cornell Store in the 1990's. I just heard from one of my former coworkers there about his death. I had no idea he had been sick and am very sad to hear of his passing. He was a great boss, always encouraging and positive. I remember with fondness his smile, his chuckle and the twinkle in his eye. He always greeted me warmly when I saw him at conferences and even attended a session I gave at CAMEX a couple of years ago. I was touched and happy to see him there. It's so hard to imagine him being gone from this world. I know how much you must miss him. My heart is with you all.
Roger IS a good man!
March 9, 2013
It is an honor for me to have worked with and known Roger. As a supplier to BYU Bookstore it was my pleasure to visit with him from time to time during major events like Womens Conference & Education Week. He seemed to me to be a man of kindness and conviction. Even in difficult situations he remained calm and Christ-like. I am honored to have known him. My love and sympathy to his family -
Greg Stroud
Scott Hansen
March 8, 2013
What a pleasure and an honor it has been to serve around and with Roger over the years. I know him to be a fine friend and wonderful example of obedience, love of others, and devotion to all the important things in life. He will be missed. For now we can all look forward to seeing him again...
Faye Knisley (Vergara)
March 8, 2013
Even though it was many years ago, I have a lot of fond memories of Brother Reynolds as a wonderful and kind church leader. He always had a smile on his face and had a great gift for talking to people from all walks of life. He and his family were extremely kind to my family and welcomed me and many others into their home on several occasions as a youth. I know he will be missed dearly and my heart and thoughts go out to his sweet wife Debbi, his kids and grandchildren. My prayers are with you all.
John Richards
March 8, 2013
I first met Roger while working with him at BYU and later while serving together in Church on campus at BYU. In all capacities he was and is a rock star. A truly kind gentleman.
Judy Nicholson
March 8, 2013
We have fond memories of our times in Fremont with your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Love to all the family. Brad & Judy
Bradley Wilkes
March 8, 2013
Roger was an immediate friend and example. He was so welcoming and genuine. His personality, manner and spirit communicated the best attributes one can receive and develop--love, understanding and encouragement. He will, of course, continue to influence his family from where he is. My prayer is for Gods choicest blessings to be upon his family as they move forward in faith until reunited with him. Thank you Roger for your wonderful influence in all of our lives.
March 8, 2013
I worked at the BYU Bookstore when I was a student at BYU. Nearly 10 years later when I was visiting the Bookstore I ran into Roger and he greeted me by name and asked how I was doing. I was amazed he even remembered me. He was a great man and will be missed.
Keith Lue
March 8, 2013
I will miss Roger. We had good chats and sometimes difficult discussions. He was a mentor and extraordinary colleague. He knew how to lift people up. Roger was a friend and an amazing person. I am honored to have known this guy from Hemet.
Trena Anderson
March 7, 2013
Debbie.....all the best with many thoughts and prayers. While I've only know you and Roger for a few years, it seems like a lifetime. I felt an immediate friendship with Roger and have enjoyed seeing both of you and your family at BYU events. You are amazing and Roger will always be with you. Love, Trena Anderson
Chris & Deena Justice
March 7, 2013
I first met Roger in Monrovia, California at the RayMar Book Company open house in 1968. Ever so grateful to him for hiring me at the University Mall Deseret Book where he introduced me to my future wife in 1976. Always a great smile was shared when greeted by him. Thank you so much for all that you have done.
Scott Reynolds
March 7, 2013
Dad I will miss you forever and am so grateful I was your "Favorite" son! thank you for all you taught me, for being selfless, for your service, loving nature, friendship, example, always putting others first and for your testimony! I love you and will miss you so much!
March 7, 2013
I didn't know Roger well but I do agree with the statement that no matter how briefly you knew him you felt honored to be a part of his life. I played games with Roger and some friends at a conference and will forever remember his warmth and friendliness. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife and extended family. Melinda Kramer Univ of Utah Campus Store.
Elaine & Craig Huish
March 7, 2013
Special thoughts and prayers have been with your family during Roger's illness and now during your loss. I had to walk past his office every day I was at work and honestly thought of him each time, he is missed! We hope sweet memories and the love you feel from others will provide some comfort at this time. What a blessing to know Roger is now pain-free. HUGS to all!
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