Chris Reynolds was my older brother, the oldest of three brothers . Growing up, I cherished him as a brother. He was a mentor, protector, and as we all know, an instructor. He thrived in his role as the eldest child, he was at ease directing his younger siblings to their tasks and making sure they were complete. He was easy to look up to, he was smart and studious, athletic, funny, and a great companion.
When considering today, I was drawn to the photograph of the infant Chris and his mother. The beautiful mother and child , the wonderment in their eyes,the hope for a magnificent future.
Christopher pointing his finger, and making his first tentative inquiry into the world or perhaps, making his first attempt at instruction.
Chris made friends easily throughout the world and judging by the outpouring of condolences, many were fond of him as many of these friendships have endured over the decades. In addition to his friends many of Chris’s relatives have contacted us in the past week expressing condolences and in particular, expressing their love and best wishes for his three children.
Unfortunately, Chris’s addiction to alcohol grew worse over the years ,eventually undoing everything he worked hard for.
As I have mourned this week and struggled to reconcile the brother of my youth and what he became I return to the picture of the mother and the infant, the picture of hope for a bright future. Chris has three wonderful ,smart and accomplished children whose futures remain bright and full of hope, something Chris would want for them.
-Bill Reynolds
