Dr. James Ralph Reynolds, a distinguished physician, dedicated Elder, and beloved family man, passed away peacefully at his residence on May 12, 2026. Born June 20, 1940, in Bolivar, Tennessee, Dr. Reynolds lived a life marked by profound commitment to his community, faith, and family.

A prominent figure in Dyersburg, Tennessee, Dr. Reynolds was among the pioneering doctors who established the Internal Medicine Clinic in the city. His medical career was notable not only for his clinical expertise but also for his unwavering service, including his many years serving in the Reserve Corps of the United States Public Health Service. Beyond medicine, he was deeply engaged in community welfare, notably as a board member of the Dyer County Humane Society for over four decades, during which he personally contributed by adopting many animals from the shelter.

An avid runner, Dr. Reynolds maintained an impressive lifetime achievement of having run over 90,000 miles, exemplifying his dedication to healthy living and perseverance. His faith was central to his life; he was a devoted member and Elder at the Parr Avenue Church of Christ, where he was cherished for his love of children and his grandchildren.

Dr. Reynolds is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Janice Reynolds of Dyersburg, Tennessee; his daughter Blair Reynolds of Newbern, Tennessee; his son James Michael Reynolds of Poland; and two sisters, Sarah Walduogel (Richard) of Seattle, Washington, and Teresa Pate of Germantown, Tennessee. He was affectionately known as DaDa to his three grandchildren—Christopher Scott Chitwood, Hannah Blair Chitwood, and Joshua Frank Reynolds Chitwood.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Ralph Reynolds and Rodgie Kathleen Yopp Reynolds.

Family, friends, and community members are invited to pay their respects at the visitation on May 16, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 1:00 p.m. The services will be held at Parr Avenue Church of Christ, located at 2482 Parr Avenue, Dyersburg, Tennessee. Honorary pallbearers include Dr. Robin Algee, Christopher Chitwood, Danny Carpenter, Terry Seaton, and Tim McCraw.

As a testament to his lifelong dedication to service and compassion, memorial contributions may be made in his honor to the Dyer County Humane Society at 1120 East Court Street, Dyersburg, TN 38024; Parr Avenue Church of Christ, 2482 Parr Avenue, Dyersburg, TN 38024; or the Dyer County Community Cancer Fund, P.O. Box 1055, Dyersburg, TN 38025.

Dr. James Ralph Reynolds’ legacy of caring, both in healing and community involvement, remains a beacon of inspiration. His life was a profound gift to those fortunate to know him, and his memory will be treasured by his family, friends, and all who were touched by his kindness and dedication.