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Thomas Reynolds Obituary
Born February 23, 1933, in Virginia, he was the son of the late Joseph Ernest Reynolds and Sarah Elizabeth Hall Reynolds. He was also preceded in death by two brothers, James Herbert Reynolds and Graham Woodrow Reynolds.
He is survived by his daughter, Debbie R. Kerley of Orange, Virginia; one grandson, Paul Thomas Kerley of Orange, Virginia; two sisters, Mabel R. Saffell of Fredericksburg, Virginia and Stella Colvin of Barboursville, Virginia; and a number of nieces and nephews.
He was a member of the North Pamunkey Baptist Church and the owner and operator of the Culpeper Music Store.
A memorial funeral service will be held 2 p.m. Friday, February 3, 2006, at the Preddy Funeral Chapel, Orange, with the Rev. John Farrar and Dr. Joel C. Tate officiating.
The family asks that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the Hospice of the Rapidan, P.O. Box 7515, Culpeper, VA 22701; or the Boys and girls Club of Orange, P.O. Box 242, Orange, VA 22960.
The family will receive friends from 7 until 8 p.m. Thursday, February 2, 2006, at the Preddy Funeral Home, 250 W. Main Street, Orange, VA 22960.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Reynolds
Bill Lamkin
December 18, 2023
I met Tommy years ago when I was a traveling Sales Representative for a large Fortune 500 company and Culpeper was part of my sales route. I have been playing guitar since I was 12 years old (now 71). Tommy always was a good friend to me and I always stopped in Culpeper Music when I was in town. I am looking at the cherry red SG he sold me many years ago right now. I played a lot of gigs with that axe and he made me a good deal on it. Truly a great man and I will always remember him as a friend. Bill Lamkin, Fredericksburg, VA
Chuck Shepherd
February 22, 2006
It's hard to believe that Tommi is gone. The first time I went into his store 10 years ago, he talked to me like he had known me for years. He always had plenty to talk about, and I will miss those conversations deeply. Tommi was a one of a kind person and I think we can all learn a lot from him. He operated his store in a different way and helped me to realize that money isn't everything. People are what is important, and treating them with respect and dignity goes a lot farther than worrying about the quick dollar. My band Skyeline and I offer our deepest sympathies. Tommi, you will be greatly missed.
Billy Brockman
February 22, 2006
I first met Tommi when I was a 14 year old aspiring guitar player. I would go into Sparks' Grocery on Main Street in Orange and bug him about music, guitars and amps, and anything musical. He was the same then (1964) as the man described in so many of these posts. Generous, friendly, and with a totally unique view of life. In later years after I bought Charlottesville Music we talked often on the telephone and without fail he would begin every conversation with "how's the family?" and end every conversation with "come see me when you can, boy." And by the way, he was a helluva guitar player.
John Pierce
February 20, 2006
I still look for Tommi every time I pass the store, it just seems so strange that he's not there anymore. I could always count on him for some uplifting conversation and positive thoughts. I was lucky enough to play some gigs with him and share a few laughs. You will be sorely missed brother.
Jackson Baker
February 16, 2006
What a man, what a friend. What more can you say. Til we meet again..Jack
Cal Newman
February 14, 2006
Tommi, you are one special human being. Your love for your fellow man should be an inspiration to all of us. Your love for your family came thru loud and clear to anyone who knew you. Your passion for music of all kinds was projected in your performance. You will be surely missed. Love to your immediate family as well as extended music family.
Cal & Dot Newman.
Don and Brandy Peyton
February 13, 2006
When Don and I wanted to get into playing music we where recommened to Tommi Reynolds at Culpeper Music, and Oh what a nice man was he. He helped us out greatfully in picking out the correct instruments for us. He once told us that he plays his guitar all times of the night, and I asked him "Don't you sleep? and he told me that sleep was a waste of time that there was a lot in life that you could be doing. He will be greatly missed by lots of people! Tommi now you can rest peacefully.
Louie Warren
February 7, 2006
Tommi, while I don't have the history many do, I still have vivid fond memories of being with you at the store on a Saturday afternoon. A greater friend you could never want. Whether you just walked in and struck up a conversation, or you'd been away for 10 years, or were just in there yesterday... you were always the same. You were an inspiration and continue to be to this day. I'll miss you, but know we'll meet again... and if it has to wait until I'm 72 I know you'll greet me with "Boy, how you been? How's the wife? The band?"
Tim Dingus
February 5, 2006
I was truly blessed by the gracious Lord above the day I met Tommi Reynolds. He was one of the kindest, truest, most generous, and loving people I have ever know. We'll all miss him dearly. Thanks for everything Tommi.
Steve & Brenda Minter
February 4, 2006
I first met Tommi in the early eightys when I had just moved back here from Nashville and took a job in Culpepper driving from Earlysville (Ch'ville area) each day. I walked in his store one day after work and immediately fell in love with the man and his music. We knew all the same people, all the same music, and both had that same love for the traditional sound that has so sadly been sit aside in lew of the dollar and record sales. We spoke often of the accuracy in the lyrics recorded by Alan Jackson, and George Straits, "Murder on Music Row" On many countless Wedesday evening's which was my scheduled night to lock the doors at 5:00 and we would just sit and pick til 6:30 or 7:00 and then he'd want to buy your dinner. I would always play the same guitar off the wall and one early Dec. session he said, take that guitar home with you for Christmas. I told him there was no way I could do that and he joked you've worn it out playing it, I can't sell it now. "Merry Christmas" I have owned and traded many guitars since but that one will always hang fondly on my living room wall. I will close in saying my wife and I are deeply, deeply, saddened to hear of his passing, but I am confident as I have also heard Tommi express, It is only for a season. I know beyond any doubt we will sit down and pick together again. Until then I sure would love one more hug. God Bless,
RONNIE DENNIS
February 3, 2006
HELLO OLD FRIEND! LONG TIME NO SEE.I AM SO SORRY FOR MY LOSS.LONG TIME GOOD FRIENDS ARE SO HARD TO COME BY AND EVERY YEAR IT SEEMS MY LIST GROWS SHORTER.AS YOU WELL KNOW WE HAVE LOST ALOT OF GOOD PICKERS OVER THE YEARS AND IT LOOKS LIKE WE LOST ANOTHER ONE OF THE BEST.I WILL MISS YOU MY FRIEND BUT WE WILL MEET AGAIN SO TELL THE BOYS HEY FOR ME UNTILL WE PICK AGAIN.AND TO YOUR FAMILY MAY THE LORD BLESS AND COMFORT THEM ALL IN THERE TIME OF NEED.FOLKS HE WAS A GOOD FRIEND AND A FIND MAN. THANK YOU TOMMI!!!
Lee Goldsborough
February 3, 2006
Culpeper has lost a unique businessman, & all musicians a great friend. Tommi will be truly missed. There's probably not a band in this area that didn't get some help from him over the years. I know of several times when I'd go in the store to buy a set of strings or a cable, always forgetting Tommi & Bishop didn't take credit cards! It never mattered if you didn't have the necessary cash; Tommi would just tell you to take the item & pay the next time you came in. As I said, how many businesses are run that way any more? We'll miss you, my friend. Be free
Duke Merrick
February 3, 2006
God blessed Tommi with talent,integrity, and a heart of gold.We were all blessed just knowing him. It was always an honor to share the same stage with him playing music. Go rest high on the mountain son and pick em all one.
Duke Merrick
Junior & Gina Shifflett
February 3, 2006
Tommi was a great man and will be missed by all. He was an icon in this town. God bless his family. He will be missed. Heaven got a special ange.
Brian Davis
February 3, 2006
Tommi was a great friend to my mother, sister, and I through many hard days. Our spirits were always lifted in his presence. I spent alot of time during my youth in his store and was always astonished at his generosity, kindness, and love of music. I will dedicate my band's performance this coming Tuesday night to his memory.
Jim Payne
February 3, 2006
I have known Tommi for more years than I can count. He was an asset to the music community as well as a good friend. The world has lost a good man, and God has gained a great man.
Tish Panagiotopoulos
February 3, 2006
Tommi touched so many lives, what a truly remarkable man he was. The angels are rejoicing at his arrival and the music is grand. May his example in life be carried on by each and everyone of us who knew and loved him. You will live in my heart forever dear friend.
Carole and Dave Beach
February 2, 2006
We are deeply saddened hearing that this dear friend is no longer with us. We'll miss his good humor, his fairness and trusting nature. He spoke often of his love for his daughter and grandchild, and we offer them our sincere condolences and share in their grief. We imagine that Heaven's band will sound all the more sweeter now that Tommi's talent will grace them. Rest gently, friend.
Vicky White
February 2, 2006
What an incredibly lovely person, who will very much be missed.
Vincent Day
February 2, 2006
What a man. What a wonderful soul. I feel so honored to have known and been influenced by this great man. Much love to the family during these difficult days. May God bless you.
Kenneth & Colleen Glascock
February 2, 2006
We are so greatly going to miss Tommi. He was always so sincere in his caring interest toward us and our family members. Tommi lived the golden rule "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." We send our prayers and condolences to the family.
Tori White
February 2, 2006
Mr. Tommi Reynolds was an irreplacable part of the Culpeper community. For the past 8 years I have walked into that store and bought my music supplies for Band, everytime I came in Tommi was so kind and generous, offering a story or a funny anecdote. I just thought that the family should know this: Today, in Band Class at Culpeper County High, Mr.Clore informed us of his passing- we all were devestated! Such a kind, sweet man was gone. He proceeded to ask the 100+ of us in the room how many knew Tommi and had him cut a good deal for them when they honestly needed it. Almost every single person in that room raised their hand. Tommi had a passion for music and the people who shared that same fire for it! I think he really enjoyed watching the same kids come in year after year. We, the class, were discussing what we should do, he meant alot to us. The Band resolved of its own accord to try to bring in money to donate in his honor. We're a bunch of kids, but we are trying to do our best for someone who always did such wonderful things for us. I know, that there are many who will miss him- I know 120 right now that will never forget him. Mr.Reynolds was a great man that we all were lucky and blessed to meet!
Gary Harding
February 2, 2006
Never before have I had the honor and pleasure of knowing a man like Tommi Reynolds, and I will probably never have that opportunity again. Although, I am just one of many who are blessed because of that experience. All you had to do was to meet Tommi and you had a friend for life. No matter if it was in his music store, on the streets of Culpeper or in a Subway sandwich shop, he was never too busy to spend time catching up on "your life". He always wanted to know how you were doing and would ask about your family members by name. He had a way of making you feel that you were so special to him, but that's because you were special to him. Even my mother got to be friends with Tommi. She was always telling me how Tommi would slip in the back of the music store before she would leave, and return with a jar of honey that he would give her saying “I don’t share this with many people”. I have a feeling he had an endless supply of that honey though.
I first met Tommi when shopping for my son's first guitar. Now, many instruments later, my son has turned into a fine musician and was also a "friend" of Tommi's. My son was just one of many, who would frequent by the store just to talk with him. He would soak up Tommi’s wisdom like a sponge, and could not get over his kindness. When I would see Tommi, he could not speak more highly or be more complimentary of my son. I could not help but to feel so lucky to be his father, because of how Tommi would continue to brag on him. There are probably many a parent who could share that same story. Tommi Reynolds had a genuine passion for young people, and in return they had so much respect for him. He never concerned himself with whether you had the money in your pocket to cover the cost of an instrument, he just wanted to make sure that it was the "right" instrument for you. It was not uncommon for Tommi to offer you an instrument on loan so that you could take the time in making your decision. There were never any term limits on the expectation of the return of the instrument as well. And if you decided to make a purchase, of any kind, he insisted on you paying less than what it was listed for. Tommi would also offer to let you have an instrument, with no money down and no set payment plan. Quite frankly, I never could see how he made any money, but he was so rich in friends. Thank you Tommi, for everything...
gary phillips & mickey dent
February 2, 2006
Tommi will be greatly missed He was instrumental in us continuing our music endeavors. He was great friend, musician and business man. he always treated us fairly - gave great advise and provided us with quality musical instruments and instruction. Culpeper music will never be the same; hang in there Bishop - will see you soon. Gary and Mickey - Fredericksburg VA
Jake Rumph
February 2, 2006
Tommi was someone that I really enjoyed talking with, especially about music. He was a person you could really trust. I am saddened to hear of his passing. He will be missed.
William Burke
February 2, 2006
You were my father's best friend, though I never knew you closely. I appreciated how you befriended him. Sail on, sailor.
Sandy Masaitis
February 2, 2006
Mr. Reynolds touched so many lives in this community, with his kindness, good nature and generous spirit. My family feels very blessed for having had the opportunity to know him, through patronage of his wonderful music business.
I have asked my children to always remember his kindness, his wisdom and his selflessness, and to let his remarkable spirit be an example to them as they grow up. We are most appreciative to Tommi and extend our prayers to his family. He will be greatly missed and Culpeper won't be the same without him.
Brian Kimble
February 2, 2006
I am saddened to learn of Tommi's passing. I have come to know that he was a fixture in our community. Though I knew him for only a short time, I appreciate what he has meant to aspiring musicians like myself. I fondly recall Tommi sharing a joke and his occassional light-hearted comments regarding his feelings for banjo players. He will be much missed.
Phil Hunt
February 2, 2006
What can I say but, Tommi will be missed very much from a lot of people. I admired him very much as a friend, and father figure. He was always there to lend a helping hand in anyway. He would have given you the shirt off his back if needed. I will miss picking with him and listening to his jokes and wisdom. Tommi was a pilar in Culpeper. There will never be another.
Scott Bzdak
February 2, 2006
A friend like Tommi only comes around once in a life time. I am truely honored to have known such a wonderful person.
Eddie Estes
February 2, 2006
Tommy was one of a kind. I have known him since I was a kid and hung around the music store. He always encouraged me.
I am sure he did the same for many kids trying to learn to play music.
He was a great guitarist and a good guy!
I consider him to be one of my dearest friends and I'll miss him a lot.
Eddie Estee
MIKE& IRENE SNELLINGS
February 2, 2006
Our condolences go out to the family of Tommi. He was a wonderful music friend over the years. Such a talented musician and helpful friend to all. He wil truly be missed. Our prayers will be with you and our hearts will truly feel his loss. God Bless.
NICK & BETTY HAJACOS
February 2, 2006
We are so saddened to hear of our loss of such a wonderful, talented and gunium music friend.The Lord has called him home,(in a better place) to be with the rest of his family, but Tommi will never be forgotten by all his music friends in Richmond, Va and throughout the states. Tommi, Nick and I loved you like a brother, remembering all the love, kindness and support you showed us when we traveled to Culpeper to visit family. Our trips will never be the same. Our condolences to your family. God bless you during this difficult time.
Betty [email protected].
Donna Blassic
February 2, 2006
I was so sad to hear of Tommi's passing. Though I only knew him from my weekly visits to his store for music lessons, and the occasional purchase, he was a very special man, who I feel richer for having known. I extend my deepest sympathy to his family and closest friends.
Bryan Jacobs
February 2, 2006
Tommi, you will be surely missed, not only by me, but the many people you have touched. You have been a great inspiration to me over the years and been a steady supporter of me and my music. I don't know if I would have every entered a recording studio to record on my own if it wasn't for your incouragement.
I'll miss you and I feel that I'm a better person for having known you.
Bless you.
GARY HOLMES
February 2, 2006
He will be missed for his kindness
a his williness to help in the music
field, He was very good and kind
to me. GARY HOLMES (AMISSVILLE, VA)
PENNY HOUCHENS
February 2, 2006
WITH DEEPEST SYMPATHY, TOMMI WAS VERY MUCH APPRECIATED BY EVERYONE ESPECIALLY THE MUSIC WORLD.
Jack McGregor
February 2, 2006
Tommy's genuine warmth, spirit and optimism will be missed by so many. A visit to Culpeper from my home in South Carolina would not be complete without a trip to Tommy's store. Culpeper will never be the same but has been all the richer for knowing him.
Richie Norford
February 2, 2006
Though I had only met Tommi a few times (as a friend of my mother) I remember him as fine company. I am sure he is "confering with intellectual hillbillies" on high.
Marilyn Norford
February 2, 2006
The entire world could take a lesson in how to be a friend from this lovely man. I adored Tommi,
and consider it a major blessing in my life to be honored by being held in loving friendship by him. He was always kind, supportive, positive, and all who knew him found their corners of the world a better place for his journey through. Tommi was the "stuff" that living legends are made of.
I'm sure he didn't receive it, but just last week I sent him a letter, as he'd been "walking across my mind," and I needed to be in touch.... No surprise, for there never was a person more "in tune" with the universe and with an innate "telepathy" with friends.
I know he'll continue to "walk across my mind," and I welcome those moments.
Debbie and Paul, you are in my heart and in my prayers . . . You were so blessed to be so loved and nurtured by that wonderful man!
Susanne Taylor
February 2, 2006
I am both shocked and saddened to learn of Tommi's passing. Like many others, I have purchased a fine guitar from him, and had some wonderful chats with him, both in the store and at meetings about the After School Arts committee meetings when we were in the beginning stages of that program.
I will never forget his talent, kindness and generosity. My condolences to the family. Our community will definitely feel his loss.
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