James J Reynolds

James Reynolds, age 58, passed away on April 14, 2025. Born on February 8, 1967, Jim was a beloved son, brother, and uncle, who vigorously pursued his passions within vibrant arts and musical communities. 

Jim grew up in Cincinnati’s Dehli Township, son of Thomas and Margaret (Feldman) Reynolds. As a high school student he assembled and played in rock ‘n’ roll bands, memorably The Redundants, with gigs at mass, mixers, and parish festivals. Jim would always share the music that invigorated him and expand the palate of those around him. 

After attaining a bachelor’s degree in Art History from the University of Cincinnati, Jim returned several years later for a second bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. His deep love of physics uniquely blended with his creative pursuits—he was fascinated by the mechanics of sound, often programming his own musical tones and textures as part of his artistic expression. He was both artist and engineer, disassembling sounds to build something new. 

During those college days, Jim was often struck with wanderlust, saving up his funds to go on weeks-long road trips with a friend, camping his way across the country and back. He maintained a lifelong love for travel, particularly the mountains and deserts of the American West. 

Eventually Jim took his creative passion to another level with Chalk, a prominent Cincinnati band that would record multiple albums of melodic, electric, experimental folk music. His sound continued to evolve with Eat Sugar, spending years recording and touring across the United States and overseas. 

Longtime friend and Chalk bandmate Dave Rohs described Jim’s perceptive and creative approach. “He was not satisfied with looking at an object one way; like a cubist, he rotated and explored an idea from all sides. Jim was both analytical and emotional. He was a unique example of a paradox. It gave him vitality. We were proud of the music our exploration birthed. There were moments when all things seemed possible.” 

Jim was a cherished little brother to Terri (Doug) Vance (Rieckhoff), big brother to Mike (Hiromi) and Dave (Chrissy) Reynolds, and uncle to nephews Nick, Dan, John, Eli, Tommy, Luke, Ben and nieces Alex, Jackie, and Vickie. 

Jim was a kind human with an individualist spirit. He played chess. He painted. He sketched. He brought music into the lives of those around him. He was himself, as genuine as a person can be. He will be missed and his memories celebrated by the family and friends who loved him. 

Family greeting for James Reynolds will be held Thursday, April 24, at Vitt, Stermer & Anderson Funeral Home 4619 Delhi Ave Cincinnati, OH 45238 from 6 PM until time of Blessing at 7 PM.