David Jay Wellington Reynolds

David Jay Wellington Reynolds, 83, of Hickory, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2026, at Carolina Caring Hospice House after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on September 24, 1942, in McDowell County, David was the son of the late Pearle Daniel Reynolds and Bonnie Silver Reynolds. He was also preceded in death by his first wife, Sharon Berry Reynolds.

David proudly served his country in the United States Navy, retiring after 24 years of honorable and dedicated service. Following his military career, he continued his strong work ethic with the United States Postal Service, where he built a successful second career. Beginning as a mail carrier on a walking route, David worked his way up to Post Office Operations Manager before retiring at the age of 55 in Hickory.

Known for his outgoing personality and deep love for family and friends, David never met a stranger. He enjoyed an active social life and had a competitive spirit that carried into all areas of his life. During retirement, he could often be found on the golf course, a pastime he greatly loved. When he wasn’t golfing, he was proudly cheering from the sidelines at his grandchildren’s sporting events. David was also a member of the Hickory Elks and the American Legion.

Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife of nearly 10 years, Cheryl Nodine Reynolds; his son, Kenneth Reynolds and wife Mariah of Fernandina Beach; his daughter, Tracy Reynolds Gutkowski and husband Mike of Hickory; stepson Steve Poteat and wife Debbie of Marion; stepson Scott Poteat of Greensboro; and stepdaughter Susan Shamoun and husband Paul of Tallahassee. Through their marriage, David and Cheryl were blessed with a beautifully expanded family, sharing 16 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren who brought immense joy to his life.

A Memorial Service honoring David’s life will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Drum Funeral Home Chapel with Chaplain Rick Smith officiating. The family will receive friends and hold a reception following the service, with additional details to be announced at the memorial. David will be laid to rest at Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests memorial donations be made in David’s memory to Catawba Regional Hospice, 3975 Robinson Road, Newton, NC 28658.

Online condolences may be left at www.drumfh-hickory.com

Drum Funeral Home – Hickory is honored to serve the Reynolds family.