William Roscoe Reynolds

Born in Porterdale, Georgia, to the late Walter Rufus and Alice Waddleton Reynolds, William—known to some as Bill and others as Roscoe—lived a life defined by gratitude, humor, and generosity. He retired as an auditor with the State of Georgia and worked hard throughout his life to provide for his family. Even after retirement, he kept his mind sharp as part of a successful small business.

People who met Bill were often surprised by his age. He looked younger than he was and maintained a youthful spirit. Even in his 80s he never hesitated to lend a hand, learn a stranger’s name, or share his expert tax advice.  

Bill was preceded in death by his twin brother, Roy Reynolds, and his sister, Ann Reynolds Breese. He is survived by his devoted wife, Lynn Crawley Reynolds; children: Penny Nuss (Allan), Mickey Reynolds (Diana Burke), Kelly Reynolds, and Jeff Reynolds (Leigh Wiley); as well as his beloved grandchildren: Meghann, Rachel, and Jacob.



Those who knew Bill will remember his quick wit, his humility, and his unwavering optimism, even in the face of hardship. He was famous for his dry sense of humor, and it was sometimes difficult to know whether he was kidding until he flashed a sly grin, finally letting you in on the joke. He loved to repeat old one-liners, weave song lyrics into conversations at unexpected moments, and remind everyone of his favorite inexplicable saying: “Three men in a boat and the oars leak.”



Bill loved simple pleasures. Black coffee, classic movies, chocolate, Stephen King books, sweet tea, and TV shows like “In the Heat of the Night,” which he watched endlessly on repeat with Lynn by his side. He was the king of the holiday breakfast with scrambled eggs that couldn’t be matched, and his annual sweet potato pie will be dearly missed at Thanksgiving. He also had a soft spot for animals. Two of the family cats, Reo and Dani, competed for the honor of his lap as he watched television from his favorite armchair, often choosing to sit still rather than disturb their comfort.



Bill loved golf, watching boxing, and above all, time with family and friends. His calm, even-keeled presence made him a steady anchor for those around him, while his humor and kindness kept spirits light. He would, however, like to remind everyone that he was the last surviving member of the infamous teenage “gang,” the R.A.R.’s (aka the Ragged Ass Ramblers). When Lynn once asked him what exactly the R.A.R.’s did, without missing a beat he answered, “That’s confidential.” The rest of the gang would be proud that he has taken their secrets to the grave.



The family will receive friends on Monday, September 22, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., at Bernstein Funeral Home (3195 Atlanta Hwy., Athens, GA).

A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, September 23, at 2:00 p.m., in Covington Mill Cemetery in Covington, followed by a light reception.



In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Athens Area Humane Society.



Bill lived a rich life full of love, affection, humor, and family. Though he has passed, we honor him in every joke retold, every scratch off lottery ticket, every random butt-dial song, and every moment of gratitude for our loved ones.

Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.