Reginald Alan Regan

Reginald Alan Regan of Tempe, Arizona went home to the Lord on Sunday July 2 after spending the day doing what he loved, meeting friends and reading at his favorite bookstore. Reg or Reggie, as his family lovingly called him, was born on August 15, 1946 to Nieves and Dennis Regan in Glendale, Arizona along with his twin brother, Ricky.

As a young boy, Reg fell in love with baseball. A passion that would take him to Phoenix College on a scholarship and stayed with him throughout his life. In support of his family, he worked during high school, balancing his school work, baseball and job. After completing Phoenix College, he transferred to ASU, graduating with a teaching degree and becoming a die hard Sun Devil fan. He was an avid follower of both ASU’s football and baseball teams.

Upon graduation, he taught at both the high school and elementary levels in Arizona and Utah. He coached baseball to junior high students and loved his time back on the field with his students. During this time he was blessed to become a father to daughter, Vanessa and son, Christopher. His time spent being a father brought him the most joy. He was also recognized as the favorite Uncle among the many nieces and nephews in his extended family. His care for his family lasted all his life, always there to offer support-whether it was driving a niece to cancer treatment or making sure everyone was ok after a loss in the family.

It was back on ASU’s campus in the early 1980’s that Reg met Jo, who would become his loving wife for over 37 years. Students in an economics class together, their study sessions turned into love with Reg’s sense of humor making it bearable and even fun. Jo and Reg shared their mutual love of books, cooking and teaching. Reg taught Jo the fine art of Mexican cooking, his favorite dish being refried beans and his famous guacamole. They joked Jo married him for his recipe.

After retiring he was able to enjoy books and more books. He would visit the bookstore daily and enjoy coffee with friends, devouring the latest non-fiction titles, focusing on history and politics. He found more joy in retirement spending time with his two grandchildren, Tommy and Allie. He loved doing rockets at the park, playing sack of potatoes and board games such as Park and Swap, often “cheating", just to get a rise out of them. He also enjoyed being with his niece Stephanie and her family, having a good time just being together.

He is survived by his loving wife Jo and many loving family and friends. His family is planning a Celebration of Life for the Fall.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.resthavencarrtenney.com for the Regan family.