The new Campbell High Football Field was named for John T. “Jack” Reynolds in August. Joining the celebration were Reynolds wife, Mary Lou, and Campbell Head Football Coach Justin Price. (PHOTO COURTESY OF WLAF’S PAT PEBLEY)

By Jim Freeman

LAFOLLETTE, TN (WLAF) – The mischievous boy who grew up on Riggs Hill became quite the expected leader for a community that will miss him dearly. Jack Reynolds, the man who would say in both a serious and humorous way, “I’m a 1929 model,” has died.

“Jack Reynolds did more to help Campbell county during his life than most of us ever will. He helped people from all walks of life, because he cared about them,” said State Senator Ken Yager.

Reynolds was born and raised right here in La Follette and graduated from the old La Follette High School when it used to sit on the hill just above Downtown La Follette. After graduating college and serving his country, he was right back here in La Follette in 1953 starting a nearly 70-year career in banking at Peoples Bank of the South.

Veteran Jack Reynolds was driven through the 2015 Veterans Day Parade by veteran and former Mayor Mike Stanfield.

“In the 2015 LaFollette Veterans Day Parade, Jack was the grand marshal. As I was getting ready to take his picture, he told me to be sure and get the cap. He was proud of his service and all who served,” said WLAF’s Charlie Hutson.

“Jack was a fine person. I used to have coffee with him on Saturday mornings. He would regale us with stories,” said Yager.

During his 68-year career in banking, Reynolds held leadership positions ranging from Executive Vice President to President to Chief Executive Officer to Chairman of the Board of Directors. Due in large part to Reynolds leadership, Peoples Bank of the South celebrated its 104th anniversary in May. The Tennessee Bankers Association also recognized him as a Leader in Banking Excellence.

“I have known Mr. Reynolds all of my life, because my parents were friends with him and his wife Mary Lou. He was a kind man who went out of his way to be friendly to every one and treat everyone fairly in his banking business.  Tracy and I have remained friends with his family through the years, and we last saw Mr. Reynolds at the CCHS football field dedication, which was a great tribute to him,” said State Representative Dennis Powers.

Jack and son David show off T-shirts from Byrge Screen Printing commemorating the naming of Reynolds Field.

“I will always appreciate his welcoming friendship and humor. Mr. Reynolds was a difference maker. God bless his widow and family,” Yager added.

Reynolds was recognized as the Boy Scouts of America’s Campbell County Good Scout Award recipient in 2017. He was a life-long member of the First Baptist Church of La Follette and served many years as a church deacon.

Funeral services are tonight at 6pm at La Follette First Baptist Church with visitation to immediately follow the funeral service.  Reynolds will be laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery Tuesday at11am with full military honors presented by the Campbell County Honor Guard. 

“He will be greatly missed by all of us and our thoughts and prayers are with his wonderful family during this difficult time,” said Powers. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2021-6AM)