Jim died peacefully on November 29, 2023 in Loup City. He was born on July 10, 1946 to Alyce and T.H. (Harold) Reynolds in Alliance, Nebraska. He grew up surrounded by the love of his parents and siblings Tom, Rosemary, Kathy, and John in the family home his father built on Mississippi Avenue.
His growing up years were spent getting into mischief with his many life-long friends and helping his dad at the salvage yard. On weekends in high school, he would load the semi trailer with scrap metal and drive to Pueblo to help make ends meet. Jim’s strong work ethic came from his dad. His parents also instilled in him integrity, care and respect for others, a need to help people when you could, love of family, perseverance, and the importance of laughter in life.
He was a member of Holy Rosary Church and attended Saint Agnes Academy graduating with the Class of 1964. He entered the U.S. Navy where he was stationed in San Diego, California with his two cherished Navy buddies. Upon his discharge, he returned home where he worked several jobs, including being a police officer for the City of Alliance.
He and his dad worked on many projects together, which included their favorite; a modified race car that was known as “Double Ought” (00). Both members of the Alliance Stock Car Club, Jim and his dad spent many weekends racing the modified at Alliance Speedway and tracks around the Panhandle. The whole family enjoyed time on the racing circuit where countless friends were made and many trophies won.
In February of 1977 he hired out on the Burlington Northern Railroad as a Brakeman. He later became a Conductor and continued working for the Burlington Northern after they merged with the Santa Fe. During his career he added numerous railroad friends and there was nothing he loved more than telling an entertaining story with a twinkle in his eye.
He married his wife, Judith, in November of 1977 and to this union two children were born, Aryanna and Thomas. He also added his beloved 1977 black Dodge Warlock pickup he called “Puff.” There were many memories made for the family through the years taking trips in “Puff” and there wasn’t anyone in town who didn’t know who owned it. The truck was later passed on to his son who will continue its care and take it on new adventures.
In 1978, taking a page from his dad’s book, he built a home for his family on Mississippi Avenue next to his parents house. He could always be found working in his shop on projects from woodworking to automotive. There wasn’t a tool he didn’t own and nothing he couldn’t fix or build.
He loved Christmas and spent every year planning and building a different electronic tree for the enjoyment of family, friends, and neighbors for the holiday. Many memories were made of his created trees, lavish Christmas celebrations, and endless gifts. He loved making people happy! He also enjoyed playing golf, spending time with friends, and working in the yard.
In 2005 he moved to Litchfield, Nebraska and worked out of Ravenna until he retired. He expanded his circle of family by adding Gladys Lucas and her two children. He lived in Litchfield until his death.
He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Judith, his children, Aryanna and Thomas (Jessica), and three grandchildren, Rebekah, Sarah, and Elusion. His brothers, Tom (Ruby) and John (Virjean), his sister Kathy, his brother-in-law Dave, and 12 nieces and nephews. He is also survived by Gladys Lucas, her children Tena (Buster), and Elizabeth, and their
children Malynn, Addie, Jenna, and Heidi.
He was preceded in death by his mother, father, sister Rosemary, brother-in-law John, and one nephew. He has been cremated with services to be held in Alliance at a later date. Burial will be in the Veterans Cemetery and memorials may be given to a charity of the donor’s choice.
He was a good man who kept his friends for a lifetime. He was an excellent provider who worked hard to give his family everything they needed in life and more. He was blessed with a great sense of humor and a laid back, fun loving spirit. He leaves behind many memories for his family and those lucky enough to have known him or call him friend. His greatest
legacy is his children, grandchildren, and the house he built for his family on Mississippi Avenue. He somehow managed to live two lifetimes in one, and it just doesn’t get any better than that…