Minot S. Reynolds Jr.

Minot Shaw "Little Joe" Reynolds Jr. 83, of Orleans, Massachusetts, passed away surrounded by family peacefully on September 16, 2025, in Orleans. Born on June 19, 1942, in Hyannis, Massachusetts, Minot spent his life deeply rooted in the Cape Cod community he loved and served so faithfully.

A proud graduate of Orleans High School's Class of 1962, Minot's fascination with machines began early. As a boy, he could often be found perched on the hood of Warren Quinn's Cat dozer, absorbing every detail of its workings. This early passion laid the foundation for a lifelong career in excavation and public service. After working for the Town of Orleans Highway Department, and with the encouragement of his beloved wife Ardath, Minot founded Minot Reynolds Jr Excavating. The company became a testament to his work ethic and dedication to the town he called home. Minot was encouraging and helped Ardath to open her restaurant on West Rd. and later Ardaths at Skaket Beach. They were also central with the planning and operation of the Harwich Cranberry Festival for over a decade.

Minot's commitment to Orleans extended far beyond his professional life: He had a deep and enduring devotion to the Orleans Fire Department, where he began volunteering while still in high school. Over the decades, as a volunteer, he rose through the ranks and was eventually named Captain, a role he held with pride until retired from active duty at age 65. He was instrumental in overseeing the department's first ladder truck and remained a respected figure among his fellow firefighters.

Community involvement was second nature to Minot. Whether grilling hot dogs at Cape League ball games at Eldridge Field or lending a hand at the Orleans Police Block Party, he was always present—often behind the scenes but always making a difference.

He was a loyal supporter of the Cardinals/Firebirds and had an uncanny knack for winning their 50/50 raffles. Alongside Ardath and their children, Minot played a key role in numerous community projects—from building school playgrounds and greenhouses to constructing dugouts at Eldridge Field—each one a reflection of the Reynolds family's deep-rooted commitment to their neighbors.

Known affectionately as "Pop" or "Papa" by his family and "Little Joe" by friends and community members, Minot was a man defined by generosity and quiet acts of kindness. His legacy lives on not only in the physical structures he helped build but also in the countless lives he touched through personal gestures that often went unrecognized but were never unnoticed.

Minot and Ardath shared a love for travel and adventure that brought joy to generations of their family. They made frequent trips to Disney World in Florida with their camper—a tradition that grew to include grandchildren over the years. The Big E, Topsfield Fair, and Fryeburg Fair were also favorite destinations where memories were made year after year. At home, Minot enjoyed collecting cast metal scale models of construction equipment, Mack trucks, and excavators, a hobby that reflected both his professional passion and childlike wonder.

Minot is survived by his children:Virginia Reynolds of Orleans; James Reynolds of Brewster;Timothy Reynolds of Brewster; and Sabra McKean and her husband Rick of South Dennis. He leaves behind cherished grandchildren: Devin, Alyssa, Hayley, Kayla, and Marilyn; as well as great-grandchildren: ArdathRae, Christian, Jayce, Sophie, Minot, Sally, and Stefan.

He is also remembered by his brothers: John, Charlie, Bobby, Ronnie, Willie and their children, his many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his wife Ardath H. Reynolds; his sister Rae Reynolds O'Neil; and his grandson T.J. Reynolds.

Minot's life was one of service to his family, his town, and all those fortunate enough to know him.

His presence will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all whose lives he enriched through quiet strength and unwavering support.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspire continued acts of kindness in his honor.

Donations to the Orleans Rescue Squad Association in lieu of flowers are appreciated.