Roger McMillan Reynolds

Roger McMillan Reynolds, age 74, of Wilmington, passed away peacefully at home on the family farm Saturday, June 28, 2025. Born January 3, 1951, in Wilmington, Roger was the son of the late Vaughn (Doris) Reynolds and Dorothy (Jack) Mockabee (McMillan). He was raised in the New Antioch Church of Christ and graduated from Wilmington High School in 1969. He went on to study agriculture at Wilmington College, setting the foundation for a life lived close to the land and to the music he loved.

By day, Roger was a proud farmer. By night, he followed his passion for music, playing drums in countless local bands over the decades. From early gigs at Mr. B’s (where his mom had to chaperone due to being underage) to his time with “Bobbie’s Turtle Died,” “Loaded,” “Hometown Strangers,” and the beloved “Reynolds Brothers Band” with his brother John, Roger brought rhythm and joy to countless stages. If Roger was on stage, JB Brandehoff was likely by his side.

Roger was a connector. Whether through music, farming, or friendships forged over coffee at the New Antioch Mill with his dad and local farmers telling stories before a day’s work, McCarty Reunions, or long holiday weekends with his closest friends, he had a way of bringing people together. He remembered everyone and created space for community in every corner of his life. His home, his stage, and his stories were open to all.

Above all, Roger was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He is survived by his loving wife of 24 years, Vickie Lynn Reynolds (Mayhew); his children, Chris (Tiffany) Reynolds of Wilmington, Cassidy (Nate) Rose of Blanchester, and Willie (Danika) Cross of Chillicothe; grandchildren Hannah and Brody Reynolds, Gracie and Wyatt Rose, and Cyrus, Harper, and Seth Cross, and Riley Gerber. He is also survived by his siblings, John (Peggy) Reynolds of Mason, Robyn (Jim) Spragg, Debbie (Randy) Riley, and Beth (Alton) Hadley, all of Wilmington; sisters-in-law Shirley Dumm of Chillicothe and Patty Perry of Oklahoma; his loyal dog Lizzy; and many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Since the third grade, Steve Yeakley was a true friend and always showed up until the end.

He was preceded in death by his parents, in-laws William and Norma Mayhew, stepson Michael “Eddie” (Shannon) Cross, and his legendary dog Cody.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 23, from 3:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Loft at Samuel Walkers, 64 W. Main St., Wilmington. Roger's life was a beautiful harmony of hard work, humor, rhythm, and love. His beat lives on in the memories of those who knew and loved him.

Brown Funeral Home, Wilmington, is assisting the family. To leave on-line condolences, please visit www.arehart-brown.com or our Facebook page. Brown Funeral Home. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Roger McMillan Reynolds, please visit our floral store.