Joseph Edward Reynolds

Joseph Edward Reynolds

July 17, 1934 - January 11, 2025

Joseph Edward Reynolds, 90, of Somerville/Lyons, Texas went to be with his Lord and Savior on January 11, 2025. Joseph was born in Houston, Texas on July 17, 1934. He is survived by his loving wife of 73 years, Julia Reynolds; daughter Kathleen Burleyson; grandson Joey Burleyson and wife Page; 6 great-grandchildren: Alyssa Sanchez, Jamie Burleyson, Melanie Burleyson, Koby Adams and wife Hannah, and Kolton Adams; and 4 great-great-grandchildren: Kacen Adams, Kacey Maupin, Konner Maupin and Amelia McClure. He has one remaining sibling, JoNell Wheeler, brother-in-law George Berczik and wife Joyce and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

To say Joseph was a unique individual is an understatement. He was one of those rare people who could decide to do something and then accomplish it. This is most evident by his life. During his lifetime he was a chemical engineer, a pilot, a tug boat captain, a captain of unlimited tonnage vessels and a merchant marine. He owned and operated numerous businesses through out the years including a laundromat, cleaners, grocery store, a construction business, and a fishing tackle business to name a few. In addition he designed and built houses in south Texas and was a self-published writer. After moving to the Lyons/Somerville area he served as Justice of the Peace for Precinct 4, Burleson County. 

Some of his proudest accomplishments were being an ordained deacon in the Catholic Church and being a Marine, serving his country in Korea at the Chosin Reservoir where he was wounded in battle. He was awarded the Purple Heart for his injuries. Joseph joined the Marines at the age of 16 and from that moment on, the Corps was always a huge part of him. He was proud of serving as Chaplain of the American Legion for the State of Texas and National Chaplain as well.

 Joseph loved life and lived it to the fullest extent possible. He enjoyed the great outdoors and spent time fishing and hunting whenever possible. His favorite activity was cruising the Caribbean. If it had been possible or he had been able, he would have lived full time on the ship. 

He was very proud of his family and loved them all dearly. His outgoing personality and full of life attitude will truly be missed. 

In lieu of flowers the Family encourages these Charities, St. Jude.org https://www.stjude.org/donate or Chosin Few.org https://chosinfew.org/?page=donate  or a Chairity of their choice.