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Lyme - Gary Hayden Reynolds Sr., after a brief battle with cancer, died peacefully Tuesday, July 9, 2013, at home surrounded by family, overlooking beloved Hamburg Cove.
He is the son of the late Laura and Leland Reynolds of Lyme. Gary lived an incredibly full life in his short 69 years, dedicating the majority of his time and talent to the community of Lyme and his family. Gary attended Peddie School after his parents could not keep him away from the family business. After completing a business degree from Babson College, Gary followed his passions and secured a job at The Ford Motor Company in Michigan. After two years, he became ill and recognized the corporate culture was not for him and returned to Lyme. During his short hospital stay at Yale-New Haven Hospital, Marilynn Collins, head nurse, caught his eye. Nine months later, on Aug. 19, 1967 they married. Gary and Marilynn settled in the home they built together and proudly raised three children in Lyme together.
Gary valued community and began his civic contributions in 1977 on the Board of Finance for the Town of Lyme. With his strong leadership skills, his contributions to the town of Lyme and the automotive industry continued strong until his death. His accomplishments include: president and owner of Reynolds' Garage & Marine Inc., member of the Peugeot Advisory Board, former past chief and committee chair for the Lyme Fire Company, chairman of the Lyme Board of Finance (37 years of service), treasurer for the Lyme Congregational Church, member of the Hamburg Cove Yacht Club, Justice of the Peace, board member of The Essex Savings Bank, CT Auto Retailers Association board member, director for the State of CT for the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), chairman of the Regulatory Affairs Committee and executive board member for NADA, and harbormaster for the town of Lyme.
His passions included boating, traveling, NASCAR, tinkering on the Seagraves Fire Truck, and cherished being affectionately called "Pop-Pop" by his seven grandchildren, Charlotte, Lillian, Izzadora, Julia, and Kaleigh Reynolds and Ted and Laura Lee Wayland. Gary enjoyed being an advocate for all auto dealers throughout the country and was passionate about all of the wonderful relationships he developed along the way. He relished weekly luncheons, poker nights and Sunday races with his friends.
Gary is survived by his wife of 45 years, Marilynn C. Reynolds; three children, Leland Thomas Reynolds and wife; Shaleigh Reynolds, twins, G. Hayden Reynolds and wife, Emily Reynolds, and Kathryn R. Wayland and husband, Mark Wayland; and a sister, Carleen Gerber, whom all reside in Lyme.
A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, July 15, 2013, in First Congregational Church of Old Lyme. Calling Hours will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, July 14, 2013, in Fulton-Theroux Funeral Home, 13 Beckwith Lane, Old Lyme, CT.
Please visit www.fultontherouxoldlyme.com for photos, tributes, directions and more service information .
Donations in Gary's honor may be directed to The Lyme Ambulance, P.O. Box 911, Hadlyme, CT 06439 or The Lyme Fire Company, 213 Hamburg Road, Lyme, CT 06371.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
So sorry to hear about Gary when I was on Google, Marilyn. It's been a long time. Know he's with our parents and God.
Harold Barry
March 17, 2014
No NADA Director I've known in 25+ years with NADA was more dedicated to his industry. A true gentleman and a humble yet very effective leader who will be sorely missed. God speed.
Douglas Greenhaus
July 24, 2013
On behalf of the Overhead Door Co of Norwich, please accept our condolences. We had many years of doing business with this fine gentleman and he will be missed.
Overhead Door Co of Norwich
July 19, 2013
Warm Summer Sun
Warm summer sun,
Shine kindly here,
Warm southern wind,
Blow softly here.
Green sod above,
Lie light, lie light.
Good night, dear heart,
Good night, good night.
By Mark Twain (Samuel Langhorne Clemens)
The Poetry Foundation
Richard Tutunjian
July 19, 2013
Richard Tutunjian
July 19, 2013
On behalf of the entire Peddie School community, I send our deepest condolences to the Reynolds family. Gary, a marvelous member of the Class of 1962, came back to Hightstown for his 50th reunion at Peddie in June 2012. I am saddened to learn of the passing of such a dedicated alumnus, whose universe revolved around boats, cars, the Lyme community and his wonderful family. Gary will be missed. ~Regina Ketting, Alumni Office, Peddie School
Regina Ketting
July 17, 2013
When I was about 8 and going to Lyme Consolidated School Gary was a few grades ahead of me (we had grades 1-8 in those days, no Kindergarten and no regionalization). My mom was working and needed someone to babysit for me after school. It was arranged with Laura, Gary's mom, that he would watch out for me, and so it was that I went to the Reynolds house on Hamburg Cove after each school day. In those days Reynolds Garage was a Studebaker dealer, and that included Packard for a brief period. I remember Ramblers in the Reynolds driveway. Land Rover and Peugeot would come later, and then Subaru much later. My family moved away from Lyme in 1957, but I returned with my wife in 1978, and we brought up our two kids there. We took cars to Reynolds Garage for repairs, and we called for at least one start on a snowy, freezing morning, and it was Gary who showed up. We saw him at the Hamburg Fair every year, and on rare occasion at the Mile Creek Club. When the recycling center was put in behind the fire house, I would see Gary there on Sundays working on the antique fire engine. In more recent years Gary got frustrated with the Planning and Zoning Commission of which I was a member. He could be a bit cantankerous, but on balance, I can't think of anyone who better served Lyme and the surrounding community. He was a good businessman and a good citizen. He would help you out of a jam, even when he probably shouldn't have. When he was 12 or 13 he was a good guy to take care of me, and he was a good guy the last time I saw him about a year ago, and surely he was a good guy all the days in between.
Bob Winslow
July 16, 2013
To Marilyn, Katherine, Hayden & Tom & all the rest of Gary's family, I was so saddened when I heard about Gary's passing. He was a wonderful man & to me, always represented the true character of the town of Lyme. And, although I don't live there anymore after 31 years it will always be my hometown. One of my fondest memories of Gary goes way back to '77 & involves the Hamburg Fair. I was engaged to Ted Powaleny at the time & it was my first Hamburg Fair. I desperately wanted to win a ribbon. So, I entered the baking contest at the fair. I especially don't like to cook & I will admit I am not at all good at it but I tried. I made the saddest looking jelly roll the Hamburg Fair Baking judges had ever seen. I think I may have gotten 5 out of 100 points for it. I was so disheartened but Gary came to my rescue & told one of the officials, "oh for goodness sakes, give her a third place ribbon". I still have that ribbon somewhere & I will always fondly remember him. My thoughts & prayers are with all of you, I, for one am going to miss him greatly.
Judy Varley (Powaleny)
July 16, 2013
Our condolences , to Gary's family.
Clark Creswell
July 15, 2013
May Gary rest in peace and surely god will bless him and his family
Peter Irzyk
July 15, 2013
To Gary's Family,
From Lloyd L. Reynolds, Sr. Peddie School 1959, Trinity College 1963, CEO South Port Marine, LLC South Portland ME. A real coincidence with these similarities in our lives. I even have a daughter Kyla and a son Lloyd l. Reynolds, Jr. (Kip) who is COO of South Port. Although my wife Lee and I have been involved with SPM with Kip for the past 17 years, we commute here from Malvern, PA where we live. Our sympathy and regards at your loss. Lloyd
Lloyd L. (Sr.) Reynolds
July 15, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with your families. I have a world of respect for him and his views of family, life and business.
God Bless
Ben Speciale
July 15, 2013
We just learned of Gary's passing last evening and send our condolences to all the Reynolds family. Gary was much loved by his family and the community. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all who had the pleasure of knowing this wonderful man. Scott and Wendy Mahon
Wendy Mahon
July 15, 2013
To all the Reynolds family, I am sorry to hear of Gary's passing. He was a kind gentle man. My memories of Hamburg Cove and all Grandma's family who lived there are so precious to me.
Susan Wood Maher
July 15, 2013
Our Prayers go out to the entire Reynolds Family. We know that his presence within our community will surely be missed. The Santiago Family
July 15, 2013
My prayers are with you and the family, Marilyn.
John Thursby
July 14, 2013
To the Reynolds family. I was so sorry to hear of Gary's passing. He was a great man that helped make the town of Lyme the special place it is. After my mom passed, my dad said the best day of the week was Friday lunch with Gary and friends. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time
Barbara Yeomans Koren
July 14, 2013
Dear Marilyn, Tom, Kathryn, Hayden and Family,
There is a big place left on this earth without Gary being here. I pray for all who will miss him to remember the best times they shared with him and
know there is a future where we will meet again.
God Bless,
Mary Alapa
July 14, 2013
Gary was a true presence in so many ways, a big man with a voice to match, a big and generous heart, his positions in Town both as a businessman and in a leadership roles in various civic functions and clubs and as a patriarch for his wife, children and grandchildren. I have only known Gary for fifteen short years but our lives have intersected many times in both business and pleasure and he was always fair, friendly, helpful and smiling and I enjoyed every interaction.
Ad having lived in Leland's house for a while, my family got a real sense for what that spot meant to Gary and we took great pleasure in watching him "restore" it... and he was almost giddy with pride and pleaure when he gave me a tour of the finished product. It was brand new but you could still feel the Reynold's history and long time connection to Hamburg Cove.
I will miss Gary both a person and a presence very much and please know that the thought's and prayers of the Morel-Olstein family are with Marilynn, Tom, Kathryn and Hayden and their families.
Steve Olstein
July 14, 2013
Kathryn, Laura Lee, Mark, Teddy and the entire Reynolds Family - We are so sorry to hear of Gary's passing. The entire community has lost one of its greatest citizens. He was an amazing individual. From the John Nickerson Family
John & Katherine Nickerson
July 14, 2013
So sorry to hear the sad news. I hope you find comfort in each other at this difficult time. Your family is in my thoughts!
Karen Miller Galbo
July 14, 2013
Mrs. Reynolds, I am hunting buddy's with Hayden and I am deeply sorry to hear of your husbands passing. I am also a Catholic priest and I offered Mass for your husband today. God Bless, you all are in my prayers. Fr. Jordan Turano, OP
Fr Jordan Turano OP
July 13, 2013
Marilynn, I am so very sorry to read of Gary's passing. Please know I will keep you and your family in my thoughts at this very difficult time.
With deep sympathy, Pam Niedert
July 13, 2013
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
DONALD GRIFFITH
July 13, 2013
rest in peace and may god bless you and family
cliff ward
July 13, 2013
I am so very sorry to hear of Gary's passing. He was my second cousin, and named after my Dad, Hayden Reynolds Wood. He was a smart,sweet funny man and will be missed by all who knew him. God Bless you Gary.
Jane Wood
July 13, 2013
Ann Munley
July 12, 2013
May GOD Bless and may you know peace.
Heidi Ward
July 12, 2013
I will never forget our NADA conversations. Gary was a true gentleman and friend. With our deepest sympathies.
Ray and Grace Ciccolo
July 12, 2013
R.I.P. MY BROTHER
EAST HADDAM FIRE DEPT.
July 12, 2013
Oh I am so sorry to see that he passed. I had the pleasure of meeting him when I worked for a local hospital in Old Saybrook and he was always so pleasant. I am happy our paths crossed. God Bless Gary and his circle of family and friends.
Karen Edgar
July 12, 2013
We were so sorry to hear of the loss of Gary. He was a true gentleman who was loved by all who knew him. Our deepest sympathy and prayers go out to your family in your time of sorrow. May God bless you all.
Diana Caporale
July 12, 2013
Gary you will be missed very much at GiGi's Hair Salon.I have always enjoyed having the opportunity to cut you hair and be you stylist. Many wonderful conversations and laughs.
Barbara Kirk
July 12, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Matthew Cashman
July 12, 2013
Sad to learn that Gary lost his brave fight. My deep sympathy to you all - Marilynn, Tom, Kathryn and Hayden, all the grandchildren and extended family. My heart is with you - I send you love and healing wishes.
Jan Hine
July 12, 2013
Gary always brought a smile to my face. He was always willing to provide insight into the Hamburg fair, and just made things better. He will be missed.
Kristina Donihee
July 12, 2013
To The Reynolds Family,
I am truly saddened to read of Gary's passing. I came to know Gary many years ago through the fire service. I always enjoyed speaking with him and running into him at the legendary "Hunting Camp" in Lyme back in the day. Always a gentleman, always with a joke and some laughter. Gary was indeed a big part of the fabric that makes up Lyme CT and will be sorely missed by many. My condolences go out to the family and his many friends. Go in peace Chief. God Bless.
Jim Shake
July 12, 2013
When I worked in Old Lyme, I would run into Gary and Ralph Eno just about every Friday having lunch at The Hideaway. A nicer man you couldn't meet. My condolences to Ralph on the loss of his friend/lunch partner and my sincere condolences to his family.
Martha Jacques
July 12, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Gary Weed
July 12, 2013
Good friend - "Seagraves" companion forever. Our thoughts are with you.
Don & Marilyn Swaney
July 12, 2013
To Marilynn, Tom, Hayden, and Kathryn, and Family, I found Gary to be such a gentleman, and his children to be such upstanding examples of their parents, My late mother bought cars from Gary, and she trusted Gary, I also had the same experience. Wonderful family man,marvelous father, and amazing businessman. Gary was too young and vibrant to go, and he will be remembered by all as an exemplary human being. My deepest condolences on this tragic loss. Most Sincerely,
K.D. (Kate) Miller
July 12, 2013
I am so deeply sorry for your loss , your family will be in our prayers.
Pamela Sikora
July 11, 2013
Gary was a true gentleman. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Kevin FitzMaurice
July 11, 2013
I'm really sorry Tom to hear this news sorry for your loss,keeping you in my thoughts.
LOVE
Jamie Boulanger
July 11, 2013
So sorry you are all going through this and Mr Reynolds had to pass on so young. His kindness and big heart will never be forgotten... One particular day comes to mind where he took his afternoon to show Jamie around, and take pictures of a very unique car. Jamie has never forgotten that day. You are all in are hearts at this most difficult time. Your dad was a very special man and will always be there with you all and at Reynolds' in spirit.
Mark & Lisa Burgess
July 11, 2013
Gary Reynolds was one of the best, he was a kind man with such a huge heart. Both my father and I will always remember how he took time out to help us with anything we needed, I was very proud to have known him for the short time I was in the business. He will be missed.
Tommy Lyons
July 11, 2013
I have always been proud to have worked with him. I saw his intelligence, kindness, truthfulness and love of his family and friends. Doug will always cherish the memory of his friendship.
Ann & Doug Evans
July 11, 2013
Reynolds family, I have only known Gary for a little more than two years as a member of the NADA board. I was always impressed with his wonderful outlook on life and his passion for all that did, including the DEAC President's Club. I am honored to have known him.
Richard Stephens
July 11, 2013
A complex businessman, yet a simple man with solid core values and a love of family that is deep and everlasting. He will remain in our hearts and heads forever on as a wonderful Dad, Pop Pop, and husband and friend. I shall truly miss our mutual visits with the precious grandchildren. A role model and a man of the people. Peace to Gary for a life well-lived and sorrow for those he had to leave behind. You will shine each night in the sky and twinkle down so chats with family can live on. With love, Betty Marr
Betty Marr
July 11, 2013
My prayer is for God to send His comfort and peace to Gary's family and friends
Fran Phinner
July 11, 2013
My heart is with the Reynolds family during this hard time. He was a wonderful person and will be missed dearly.
Erin Dodge
July 11, 2013
To every member of the Reynolds and Wayland families... Our hearts are grieving with you. What a wonderful husband/father/grandfather/friend he was, and we are so sorry he was taken from you so suddenly. Please know that our prayers are with all of you and that we hope the pain of your loss, in time, will be replaced by the knowledge that the very best parts of Gary are alive in each of you and that he is still with you in that way. You are all remarkable, special people, with kind hearts, which you certainly inherited from him. Much love and peace to all of you,
Fred, Sarah, Freddy & Jack Calatayud
July 11, 2013
I was saddened upon hearing about the passing of Gary. I had the pleasure of working with him for 9 years. My heart goes out to his family and all other who knew and respected him.
John Rooks
July 11, 2013
We lost a true gentleman. These are the times that test ones faith. Gary, you will be greatly missed by your family, and all those you have known through life.
Hugh Fiore
July 11, 2013
Gary Reynolds was a friend, a mentor, a motivator, and an inspiration to me. He had the gift of a kind heart, which combined with the desire to help, was a huge influence my life. His willingness to share his time and intellect kept me on a positive path and away from the pitfalls or our business. Gary's love for his family was paramount in everything he did and I was fortunate to feel like a member of his extended family. I will particularly miss his devilish grin, his hearty laugh, and his strong morale compass.
Mark Politte
July 11, 2013
Gary, the will of God will never take you where the grace of God will not protect you! You were truly one of my dad's best friend as well as my friend and a mentor to me. Ironically in the early years of the group I was so scared of you. As I grew older, you became such a source of support and knowledge. I will never forget the trip to New Orleans with you and my dad. God bless you Gary, dad and I will miss you always!
Vincent Hanson
July 11, 2013
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