Ellen R. Reynolds

It is with deep sadness that we share the sudden passing of Ellen Roberta (Button) Reynolds on October 15, 2024 due to complications of metastatic breast cancer. She is survived by her beloved husband of 55 years, David Reynolds and her cherished children, Amy Reynolds of Dedham, MA and David Reynolds of San Diego/Arlington. Born on June 13, 1946, Ellen was the second of three daughters born to Allan and Dorothy Button, also of Arlington. She is survived by two sisters, Cynthia LaRue and Julie Kelley, as well as her dear cousin, Fay Dolan. Ellen was a 1963 graduate of Arlington High School and completed her Associates Degree at Vermont Junior College. She met her husband, David Reynolds of Michigan, while vacationing with friends in Lake Placid, NY. They were married on May 3, 1969 and raised their family together in Arlington, MA.
Affectionately known by her family as the "Mayor of Arlington," Ellen was a well known member of the community she loved her entire life. She was a regular cheerleader at all of her children's games and school events and managed the Button Plumbing & Heating business when her husband took over the company. In 1987, Ellen started working as a school secretary for the Arlington Public Schools where she proudly touched the lives of endless students, families and colleagues for over 25 years. Her family fondly recalls an inability to go anywhere with her without hearing someone yell, "Mrs. Reynolds!" only to sit back and smile as she insisted on catching up on every aspect of their lives since graduation. Ellen loved being a member of the AHS community and took great pride in her role as the House C secretary.
In addition to being the constant anchor of our family, Ellen maintained strong and heartfelt relationships with so many dear friends throughout the years. She cherished her regular outings with her retired friends group and catching up with friends spanning her lifetime over the phone, through cards and letters, and trips out for dinner. One thing is for sure - Ellen spread her love and zest for life to many and she was so very loved and cherished by those she touched in return. When she shared the devastating news that the cancer had come back, Ellen saved every card and note of inspiration she received. Not only did they bring her hope and strength in these last few years, they have also provided so much comfort to her family as we were able to look through them upon her passing.
One of Ellen's "claims to fame" occurred March 13, 2012 when she experienced a bucket list dream - Drew Carey asked her to "Come on Down!" on the Price is Right and she ended up winning the whole showcase showdown.even spinning a $1 on the wheel! In addition to a new car, she took her daughter Amy on an all expenses paid trip to Paris, a memory she will always cherish. Couldn't have happened to a better person! We always knew she was a celebrity and Price Is Right made it official!
While we are devastated to say goodbye to our beautiful mother and wife, we are forever grateful for the time we had with her. We are also incredibly thankful to her medical team who loved and supported her to the bitter end. In true Ellen fashion, she spoke fondly of every nurse, doctor and social worker she crossed paths with, and we know she found great comfort in the care and compassion she received. We will miss Ellen dearly, but her memory lives on in all of us.
A gathering of remembrance for Ellen will be held at DeVito's Funeral Home on Tuesday, October 22, 2024 from 4:00pm - 7:00pm. A graveside service will be held at Mount Auburn Cemetery on Wednesday, October 23, 2024 at 11:00 am. We will be planning a Celebration of her Life for a later date in the spring. Please omit flowers. Donations can be made in memory of Ellen to: Susan G. Komen Foundation, 13770 Noel Road, Suite 801889, Dallas, TX 75380 or komen.org/donate.