Charles Ray Reynolds

Charlie Reynolds, beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on July 25, 2025, surrounded by family. Leaving behind a legacy of hard work, laughter, and a deep love for the great outdoors.

Charlie was born on August 30, 1957, to Ray and Elizabeth Reynolds in Grants, New Mexico. He spent his first 13 years in Grants and then moved to Cortez, Colorado where he spent the remainder of his life. He spent his childhood with siblings Leslie and Brandon, as well as many cousins. Building a tradition to gather on Sundays and holidays. He often recalled the mischief he would get into with his cousins which included fighting, playing with guns, and adventuring across the countryside. All the while, the adults remained oblivious to these adventures. He truly appreciated the freedom that his childhood afforded. As a teenager, he gained a love for rodeo and was a member of the high school rodeo team. In his twenties he learned to team rope and was a member of the Montezuma County Sheriff’s Posse, spending countless hours with family and friends at the arena.

He was the proud father of two daughters whose lives he enriched with his gentle wisdom, infectious humor, and unwavering support. His love only grew with the arrival of his five grandchildren whom he cherished, each bringing him immeasurable joy and whom he showered with stories, jokes, love, and the lessons learned from a life well lived. He enjoyed taking them fishing, hunting, and on rides in his classic Ford Ranger.

Charlie built his life with his hands. He worked as a Master plumber and eventually started his own business which he successfully operated for over 20 years in the four corners area. He took pride in a job well-done and mentored many new plumbers who continue the trade to this day.

Charlie found his truest peace in the mountains, with a beer or glass of iced tea in hand. He valued quiet mornings fishing along riverbanks and lake shores. He basked in the thrill of a successful hunt. It was in these places that many beautiful memories were created and will remain.

Most will remember him for his unique sense of humor and quick wit. He loved a good joke and truly enjoyed getting a rise out of the people around him. He was well known around town and people could expect a good-natured hard time. You could often hear others say, “Charlie, that’s terrible!” while trying to suppress a smile and hearty laugh.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Elizabeth Reynolds, father, Ray Reynolds, brother, Blaine Reynolds, along with many loved friends and close family members. He leaves behind his former spouse, Rhonda, daughter, Crystal Ruiz (Reynolds), her husband Tony Ruiz, and their children: Brea, Bryn and Trey, daughter, Janae Roithmayr (Biard) and her husband, Paul Roithmayr, and their children, Evyn and Gavin. Sister, Leslie Dietz and her three children, Eric Dietz, Casey Dietz, and Erin Babcock, brother, Brandon Reynolds and his wife Mori and their son, Colton, along with various great nephews and nieces. He leaves behind many close friends including his significant other, Fran Marciano.

Above all, Charlie treasured the simple joys: laughter with friends and family, and the warmth of his grandchildren around him. His stories, values, and honest nature touched the lives of all who had the privilege to call him family or friend. Charlie Reynolds will be dearly missed but never forgotten. His legacy lives on in the hearts of his children, his grandchildren, and all who were fortunate enough to share in his journey.

As we say goodbye, let us honor him with the same love of adventure, family, and friendship that he carried every day. Rest in peace, Charlie. The mountains will hold your spirit just as those you loved will hold your memory. As Charlie would say, “See you in the movies.”

Charlie did not want a funeral. He wanted a party. We will celebrate his life with a luncheon on August 30, 2025, at 11:30am at the American Legion, in Cortez, Colorado. In lieu of flowers please donate to the American Legion in support of our Veterans.