Dr. Claude Earl Reynolds finished his earthly journey on the evening of Feb. 18, 2020. He went willingly and readily into the arms of Jesus surrounded by all of his children and grandchildren. We rejoice that he is now reunited with his bride, Ima Jean Butts, after seven years apart.
Claude Earl Reynolds was born April 13, 1933 near Deport, Texas to Claudia (Morgan) and Henry Reynolds. He married Ima Jean on Nov. 30, 1956. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Sharon Davison; and wife, Ima Jean.
Claude is survived by daughter and son-in-law Deneen and Keith Christian of McKinney, and son and daughter-in-law Eric and Cassie Reynolds of Norcross, Georgia. He is also survived by grandchildren KrisAnn, Curtis and Kaitlin (Allen) Christian, and Adelaine, Brody, Audrey, Amelia and Braylon Reynolds. Other survivors include many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends he treated like family.
Claude was a loving father, doting husband, generous granddaddy, and dedicated physician. He was a genuine friend and cared deeply about each person he encountered throughout his adventurous life.
Claude graduated from the University of Texas in 1954 and remained a devout Longhorns fan. He completed medical school at UT Southwestern in 1958. Claude was stationed in Okinawa with the United States Army from 1960 to 1962, where he served as a paratrooper and physician with the 82nd Airborne Division. He was honorably discharged as a captain in 1968. Claude and Ima Jean lived in Sulphur Springs, Texas from 1964 to 1998, where he founded the Medical Surgical Clinic which grew into the largest medical clinic in Hopkins County.
Claude was active in his churches and communities throughout his life, including serving as an elder at the League Street Church of Christ in Sulphur Springs, leading the 39ers group, establishing the First Contact Ministry at High Pointe Church of Christ and organizing daily Bridge games at Pioneer Ridge Retirement Living Community.
In addition to numerous leadership roles and accomplishments, Claude was an avid outdoorsman and adventurer. He enjoyed hunting for many years and continued fishing even until very recently. He spent many years raising and riding horses and loved to share his passion with others. Claude loved to travel the world and included his children and grandchildren in numerous vacations over the years.
Claude was well-known for his encouragement and support for friends and family alike. He never missed an opportunity to challenge those he loved with words of wisdom and advice. He loved and trusted the Lord deeply, and it showed in the way he lived and loved the people around him. His strong will and confident spirit will be deeply missed, but the legacy of his life will not be forgotten.