Message from the Family
Thank you for your support during this difficult time. Please enhance this tribute to Larry by adding your memories and photos.
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Waltham,
MA
02453
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Memories & Candles
Previous
“Regret could not attend funeral as I was in Europe. Larry was a humble and very kind man. Condolences to the family.
”
1 of 125 | Posted by: Michael Sherlock - Roslindale, MA
“To the Reynolds family:
I was saddened to hear about the passing of Larry Reynolds 3 weeks ago and I was very sorry not to be able to...Read More »
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2 of 125 | Posted by: Francis X. Killoran (Frank) - MA
“To the Reynolds family sorry for your loss
”
3 of 125 | Posted by: Pauline, Paul Collett - waltham, MA
“To Phyllis and the Reynolds children,
I wish to express my sympathy to all of you on the loss of your husband and father. I have fond memories of...Read More »
”
4 of 125 | Posted by: Sister Juana McCarthy - Peabody, MA
“My deepest sympathies to the Reynolds family! Your home always exuded energy and "family" and I have happy memories of my friendship with Jimmy. ...Read More »
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5 of 125 | Posted by: MJ Tierney - Shirley, MA
“What can I say that hasn't already been said? Larry will surely be missed by everyone who's life he touched, which is virtually everyone he ever met!...Read More »
”
6 of 125 | Posted by: Ruth E. (Crowell) Buxton - Dracut, MA
“i would like to extend my sympaty to the reynolds family on larry.s passing.He was a tireless worker in the promotion of our music and an ispiration...Read More »
”
7 of 125 | Posted by: seamus shanley - friend
“Dear Reynolds Clan-
I was so sad to learn of Larry's passing. He was always like a father to me. I have so many fond memories of you all. I am so...Read More »
”
8 of 125 | Posted by: Judy Crowell - Harrison, ME
“My deepest sympathy to Phyllis and the Reynolds Family on their loss. I feel privileged for the many years I enjoying dancing sets to Larry's fiddle...Read More »
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9 of 125 | Posted by: Kathy Kire - Revere, MA - Friend
“The music never really started until Larry played.
The Coachhouse years.
Bill Watkins
”
10 of 125 | Posted by: Bill Watkins - Reading Ma
“I was deeply saddened to hear of Larry's passing, A wonderful man, father and musician, Larry was truly an Ambassador to Irish music.
”
11 of 125 | Posted by: Patsy Whelan - Brewster, MA
“So saddened to hear of Lars passing.Our thoughts are with all of his family and friends at this sad time.
”
12 of 125 | Posted by: Sean Keogh
- Galway Ireland
“I was saddened to hear of Larry's passing. I was one of those phledgling fiddlers passing through Boston for a visit. At the Greenbriar session,...Read More »
”
13 of 125 | Posted by: Lori Adams - Milwaukee, WI
“Dear Larry and family,
We didn't know your dad, only of him, but we want to express our deepest condolences on his passing. He was obviously a...Read More »
”
14 of 125 | Posted by: George and Pat Ghiorse - MA
“To Phylis and Family
So sorry to hear of Larrs passing, our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time. We will always have good...Read More »
”
15 of 125 | Posted by: Mary Keogh and family
“Jim & Diane,
We are very sad to hear of your loss. Please know that we are thinking of you and your family during this difficult time. I never...Read More »
”
16 of 125 | Posted by: John Bell - Newburyport, MA
“Jim & Diane,
We are very sad to hear of your loss. Please know that we are thinking of you and your family during this difficult time. I never...Read More »
”
17 of 125 | Posted by: John Bell - Newburyport, MA
“Sincere sympathy to Larry's Family.
Having known Larry during my 10 years in Boston I am very saddened to learn of his passing. He was a true...Read More »
”
18 of 125 | Posted by: Paddy Curley Skehana, Co. Galway
“My dear Phillis and all the family
You are all in my thoughts and prayers and thanks for the lovely memories of 33 years ago where you put us up as...Read More »
”
19 of 125 | Posted by: Padraig Lyons
“To a man who brought the gift of Irish music to Boston and kept the tradition alive. Thank you from all of us that were given a chance to appreciate...Read More »
”
20 of 125 | Posted by: Johnny & Theresa Kelly - Melrose, MA
“Phyllis and family,
May our deepest sympathy bring comfort to your hearts. Larry was a wonderful man and his passing will leave a void on all the...Read More »
”
21 of 125 | Posted by: Eileen, Kate, and Aoife Lee - MA
“Dear Michael, Jimmy and Family,
My condolences to your entire family. May God bless your Father.
Death is nothing at all-by Canon Henry Scott...Read More »
”
22 of 125 | Posted by: Bill McCarthy - Bedford, MA
“so sad to hear the news of the passing of such a lovely and talented man.
we love you Jimmy, Di and the girls.. you are in our thoughts...
”
23 of 125 | Posted by: LIsa Ainsworth and Benjamin Merrithew - MA
“To the Reynolds family we are so sorry to hear of the sad passing of Larry. Larry was a gentleman and a great friend to us, he was so welcoming...Read More »
”
24 of 125 | Posted by: willie and betty curran
“Our heartfelt sympathy to Phyllis & all the Reynolds family on the passing of Larry R.I.P. All of your friends in Ballinasloe are thinking of you at...Read More »
”
25 of 125 | Posted by: Catherine & Mike Devine
“My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Remembering Larry he was a very kind hearted man.. and as the old saying goes " the patience of Larry" and...Read More »
”
26 of 125 | Posted by: Kelly O'Rourke Cunningham - MA
“Sean and family, I am sorry for your loss. May your memories, and the comfort of your loved ones give you strength. My thoughts are with you and...Read More »
”
27 of 125 | Posted by: Kim Dudley-Nix - Waltham, MA
“Larry was an extraordinarily special man. We are thrilled to have known him. He always encouraged us to join in and play music every time we saw...Read More »
”
28 of 125 | Posted by: Colleen & Stuart Brorson - MA
“my thoughts and prayers to the Reynolds family,Larry was a great man.He will be missed dearly.
”
29 of 125 | Posted by: Ken Wenckus - waltham, MA
“Our deepest condolences to Phyllis and family. Our hearts go out to all of you. I can just imagine the great session going on right now in heaven.
”
30 of 125 | Posted by: Annemarie & Mickey Reaney & Family - MA
“Larry set the gold standard for running a session; had I not been so welcomed at the Green Briar four years ago, I probably would not be playing...Read More »
”
31 of 125 | Posted by: Rosanne Santucci - Medford, MA
“I had the honor and pleasure of knowing Mr. Larry Reynolds. Growing up with Larry's youngest son Kevin I spent a lot of time with Larry, Phyllis and...Read More »
”
32 of 125 | Posted by: Tom Stanley - Waltham, MA
“I feel so blessed to have known Larry, and played music with him. I am just one of the minions at the Green Briar, but Larry always knew my name,...Read More »
”
33 of 125 | Posted by: Scott Boag - Woburn, MA
“Dear Phyllis and Family,
I am very sorry for your loss. Larry was a great musician and friend. He will be sorely missed.
With deepest sympathy...Read More »
”
34 of 125 | Posted by: Vinnie Lavelle - Brockton, MA
“I will always appreciate his graciousness and passion for traditional music, his welcome to me when I was new to the genre, and his wide circle of...Read More »
”
35 of 125 | Posted by: Edmund Robinson
- Chatham, MA
“Larry Reynolds was a servant in the most positive and truest sense of the word. He treated all people the same whether they be rich or poor, well...Read More »
”
36 of 125 | Posted by: Paul and Pat Horrigan - Westboro, MA
“Dear Phyllis and Family,
Please accept our deepest, heartfelt sympathies on the passing of Larry. Words alone can not express what a wonderful...Read More »
”
37 of 125 | Posted by: Kevin and Maureen Lapierre - NH
“Kevin, Lisa, Molly and Kevin:
I'm so sorry about your loss. I just found out this afternoon.
Let your good memories help you through this...Read More »
”
38 of 125 | Posted by: Donna Postizzi - Framingham, MA
“My most vivid and lasting memory of Larry will be those nights at the Skellig when he would halt the barrage of reels and jigs and launch in to one...Read More »
”
39 of 125 | Posted by: Gregory Bramhall - Needham, MA
“Dear Reynolds Family,
I have had the honor of knowing Larry for only a short time...but in that time I have grown to respect him as one of the...Read More »
”
40 of 125 | Posted by: Paul Cathcart - Sterling, MA
“My condolences to all the Reynolds family. There is no doubt the sorrow you feel is tremendous but try to find comfort in the many gifts he has given...Read More »
”
41 of 125 | Posted by: Patricia Moroney-Ghanem - Quincy, MA
“Phyllis and Familly
I am so sorry for the loss of Lar,But it fill my heart to know every one i meet as the same feeling towards LAR as i would have...Read More »
”
42 of 125 | Posted by: Robert Reynolds - Galway - nephew
“Dearest Phyllis and Family,
So sorry to hear of Larry's passing. Because of Tom Garvey's fondness for Larry and his family I was honored to...Read More »
”
43 of 125 | Posted by: Peggy Fitzgerald - Haverhill, MA
“It would take a lifetime to recount all of the kindness and generosity Larry extended to me as well as to my family. I know there are hundreds who...Read More »
”
44 of 125 | Posted by: Ann Marie Chandler - ME
“Condolences to Larry's family. I never had the chance to get to know Larry well, but he always greeted me with a smile and a hearty handshake. His...Read More »
”
45 of 125 | Posted by: Paul Wells - Kennebunk, ME
“Larry was a great friend to all the Mulligans, past and present, both here and in Ireland and it was with great sadness that we heard of his passing...Read More »
”
46 of 125 | Posted by: Gerry and Caroline Mulligan - MA
“Deepest Condolences to Phyllis and the entire Reynolds family
Larry was a living example of the best in Irish culture in America, and he made Boston...Read More »
”
47 of 125 | Posted by: Killeen Family - Tarrytown, NY
“To Phyllis and family,
I am very saddened by Larry's passing. My thoughts are with you all in Boston and Ireland as you sorrowfully reflect on...Read More »
”
48 of 125 | Posted by: Shrley Donohue Ballinasloe Galway
“Dear Phyllis and family,
My deepest condolences on the loss of Larry.
As many have already commented Larry's welcoming smile was a pleasure to...Read More »
”
49 of 125 | Posted by: Mary E. Lamey - Natick, MA
“My condolences to all the family and friends.
You have cheered hearts of many
Put steps in some folks feet
Always greeted with smile and...Read More »
”
50 of 125 | Posted by: Joe Keane - Medford, MA
“Dear Phyllis, Larry Jr, Debbie, Mike, JImmy, Sean and Kevin,
My deepest condolences of on the loss of Larry. He made an outstanding contribution...Read More »
”
51 of 125 | Posted by: Mary T. O'Connor - Belmont, MA
“Dear Phyllis & Family. It was indeed with great sadness I received this recent news. He has left such a void in the music world, but in keeping...Read More »
”
52 of 125 | Posted by: Ena O'Brien - Toronto, Ontario
“Our sincere condolences to Phyllis and the family.
One would be indeed blessed to have any of these Human Qualities: Honesty, Compassion,...Read More »
”
53 of 125 | Posted by: Mance Grady - Cumberland, RI
“Dear Phyllis, Larry Jr, Debbie, Mike, Jimmy, Sean & Kevin,
Your dad was such a special man, a great friend to me and an inspiration to so many...Read More »
”
54 of 125 | Posted by: Christine Rauseo - Medford, MA
“When I first visited the Boston area many years ago in order to write about its Irish music scene for the Irish Echo, Larry went out of his way to...Read More »
”
55 of 125 | Posted by: Earle Hitchner - Pawling, NY
“My sincere condolences to Larry's wife, sons, and extended family. Larry was always very kind and friendly. His gifted musicianship and support of...Read More »
”
56 of 125 | Posted by: Martin Lyden - Rensselaer, NY
“Larry was a wonderful man who touched many with his kind and caring nature. He shared his joy in music so well, and he will be missed by all who knew...Read More »
”
57 of 125 | Posted by: Tom Leary - Dover, MA - Friend
“I have heard the Reynolds band in Waltham over the years. He gave us all so much pleasure with his music. May he find the welcome he gave us in the...Read More »
”
58 of 125 | Posted by: Jennifer Patton - Waltham, MA
“Deep felt and sincerest sympathy to the Reynolds family.
Laoch leis on saol, laoch leis an ceol agus craic... sin e Larry
Slan Taimillin,....
...Read More »
”
59 of 125 | Posted by: Matt Ganly
“My heartfelt sympathy to Sean, Sheila and family on the death of Larry. My thoughts are with you at this sad time.
Kitty & Mick Gohery
Galway
...Read More »
”
60 of 125 | Posted by: Kitty Gohery - Galway
“Our thought and prayers are with the Reynolds family during this difficult time.
Larry was such a special man to me and to anyone who had the honor...Read More »
”
61 of 125 | Posted by: Colm and Kelly Gannon
- galway, MA
“My heart goes out to Phyllis, Mike, Larry Jr., and all your extended family, and all of the dear close friends who feel this loss at this very sad...Read More »
”
62 of 125 | Posted by: Elisabeth Carter - Waltham, MA
“To Phyllis Sean Sheila and all the Reynold's family
Our sincere condolence on the sad passing of Larry may he rest in peace
Love Auntie...Read More »
”
63 of 125 | Posted by: Aunty Teresa and Uncle Frank
“Larry sent this photo to me after my dad passed away. My dad loved Larry and felt honored to be a part of "his group of musicians". Irish Sessions...Read More »
”
65 of 125 | Posted by: Eileen & Bill Collett - Natick, MA
“Words cannot express the loss we feel. Larry was such a good person. He was the heart and soul of COMHALTAS . Nothing will ever be the same. ...Read More »
”
66 of 125 | Posted by: DANNY AND JEANNE HOURIHAN
“I had the honor and pleasure of meeting Larry and his lovely wife, Phyllis, during the Old Country Tours trips to Ireland - he made them memorable...Read More »
”
67 of 125 | Posted by: Mary McCann - East Hartford, CT
“Lots of lovely memories from my trip to Boston last year one of which was my trip to Salem with Phyllis and Lar. Very sad that he's gone but I know...Read More »
”
68 of 125 | Posted by: Saoirse Reynolds - Grand niece
“i remember hanging out with the reynolds boys back in the old neighborhood . and larrys warm gentle way of making me feel welcome. my memories are...Read More »
”
69 of 125 | Posted by: bill collett - natick , MA
“Dear Reynolds Family I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and Prayers go out to all of you.
”
70 of 125 | Posted by: Leo Burgoyne - Natick , MA
“Reynolds family I am sorry for your loss, I'll always remember beautiful music that came from the house on Grove St when ever I would walk by. Larry...Read More »
”
71 of 125 | Posted by: Mike Guigno - Framingham
“Dear Reynolds Family I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and Prayers go out to all of you.
God Bless and keep you through this...Read More »
”
72 of 125 | Posted by: Lynan Barry Schueler - Merrimack , NH
“Very sorry for your loss
”
73 of 125 | Posted by: Brian Hennessey - Reno, NV
“To the Reynolds Family, my heartfelt condolences on the loss of Larry. A true gentlemen. We were so lucky to have Larry sing at our Dad's funeral...Read More »
”
74 of 125 | Posted by: Erin Hennessey Collings
“My sincere condolences to all the Reynolds family, one of Galways and Bostons greatest of all time. He could lead a session of 100 musicians and...Read More »
”
75 of 125 | Posted by: Gerry Forde - Naples, FL
“To Phyllis and all the family
We are saddened by the news of Larry's passing. Memories go back to 1973 when all the Comhaltas tour and followers...Read More »
”
76 of 125 | Posted by: Antoin and Bernie Mac Gabhann
“Phyllis, we who knew and loved Larry have some idea of how great your loss truly is. While no words can ease the pain of your loss, I just wanted...Read More »
”
77 of 125 | Posted by: Barbara Davis - Middleboro, MA
“Our sincere condolences to the entire Reynolds family on the passing of Larry -by every standard he was a perfect gentlemen and the epitome of...Read More »
”
78 of 125 | Posted by: Maeve & Vince Loughnane - CA
“Sending prayers and thoughts your way. I will always remember all the fun and laughter of the musicians playing and the dancers dancing. My parents...Read More »
”
79 of 125 | Posted by: Christine (Egan) Watters - MA
“I have always given Larry credit for fostering my love of Celtic music. He encouraged my father to bring my sister and I to the Canadian American...Read More »
”
80 of 125 | Posted by: K.C Beaton
“Our deepest condolences and heartfelt prayers at the loss of Larry. What a wonderful man he was and how lucky we who knew him are!
”
81 of 125 | Posted by: Maggie Mulvey Kelly - Dedham, MA
“heartbroken to hear the of the sad passing of Larry . im lost for words . it was a pleasure to have known Larry , a diamond of a man, condolences to...Read More »
”
82 of 125 | Posted by: Betty Curran - Derry city Ireland
“Sending our deepest sympathy to all of the Rwynold's family.Larry was a wonderful man .His friendship warmed your heart and his music made your soul...Read More »
”
83 of 125 | Posted by: Marie & Matt Croarkin - Pawtucket, RI
“So sorry to learn of Larry's passing. His contributions to traditional music in Boston can't be overstated... It was always a pleasure to hear him...Read More »
”
84 of 125 | Posted by: Anabel Graetz - MA
“To Sean, Kevin and family,
So sorry to hear of your loss.
Keeping you and your family in my prayers.
God Bless,
Patty Lambert Bourque
”
85 of 125 | Posted by: Patricia Lambert Bourque
“My condolensces to the Reynolds family. Larry's legacy in the Boston trad music scene will be one of generosity, acceptance, teaching, and...Read More »
”
86 of 125 | Posted by: Rich Danforth - North Attleboro, MA
“I was saddened to learn of Larry's death. I recall the many serious music conversations we had. My deepest sympathy to all the Reynolds family.
Noel
”
87 of 125 | Posted by: Noel Rice - Glenview, , IL
“I feel so lucky to have known such a genial, gracious person and brilliant musician. I will never forget the happy evenings we spent together...Read More »
”
88 of 125 | Posted by: Kate Chadbourne
“My heart and prayers go out to Phyllis Reynolds and the Reynolds family during this difficult time.
Larry Reynolds was not only a wonderful...Read More »
”
89 of 125 | Posted by: Barb Southworth - Oakland, CA
“My deepest condolences to the Reynolds family. I will always remember Larry's smile when he was making music. Play on Larry. You are all in my...Read More »
”
90 of 125 | Posted by: Ann Ormond - Newburyport, MA
“lovely memories.god bless.
”
91 of 125 | Posted by: gorretti woods - boston, MA
“Larry is a legend. May he rest in Peace
”
92 of 125 | Posted by: Mark Mathers - lynnfield, MA
“To all the Reynolds family, our sincere condolences to you all... Wish i could be there to give ye all a great big hug...I loved larry, he was always...Read More »
”
93 of 125 | Posted by: Eileen Rourke Burke
“Thank you for all that you did to build a vibrant Irish Trad music scene in Boston!
”
94 of 125 | Posted by: Eileen McMahon
“To Mike and the entire Reynolds family,
My deepest condolences on your loss. Larry was a legend and his music made the world a happier place. May he...Read More »
”
95 of 125 | Posted by: Steve Durant - Dorchester
“Dear Phyllis, Sincere condolences from us in upstate new York.We will miss Larry very much. A great ambassador to Comhaltas.Sincerely Anne Marie and...Read More »
”
96 of 125 | Posted by: ANNE MARIE McLaughlin - Scotia, NY
“Sincere sympathy to the family over your great loss. Although I only met Larry a few times his good nature and hardy handshake will linger in my...Read More »
”
97 of 125 | Posted by: Patsy English - Boston, MA
“Dear grandma and family,
I know we have lost a great man, but I know he is looking down on us all. There are lots of great...Read More »
”
98 of 125 | Posted by: Brigid Reynolds - granddaughter
“It was with great sorrow that I heard of Larry’s passing on Wednesday. The man with the magic fiddle from Ahascragh has left us for a better place....Read More »
”
99 of 125 | Posted by: Eamonn O'Loghlin - Toronto
“Dear Phyllis and family,
As I read this beautiful notice for Larry I am reminded of what an honor it was to know such a wonderful man. I am so...Read More »
”
100 of 125 | Posted by: Melissa (Sullivan) Magner - MA
“I have had the privilege of playing in sessions with Larry at the CCE conventions.and at the Green Briar the times I was visiting my daughter...Read More »
”
101 of 125 | Posted by: Lew and Judi Milligan - Richmond, CA
“My most special music memory ever is of playing my favourite slow air with Larry at about 3:00 a.m. at the Atlanta Comhaltas Convention in 2007. It...Read More »
”
102 of 125 | Posted by: Patricia Cassidy
“How can a gentleman of Larry stature be replaced. When God made Larry, the mold was destroyed. There could only be one Larry Reynolds. A gentleman...Read More »
”
103 of 125 | Posted by: Richard Archer - Dedham, MA
“Dear Kevin, Lisa and family,
We are truly sorry for your loss. During these difficult times we gather together in friendship to ease the pain....Read More »
”
104 of 125 | Posted by: Joe & Wendy Fournier - Waltham, MA
“Dear Phyllis and family, please accept my deepest and sincerest condolences in this time of loss and sorrow. Larry was and always will be a treasure...Read More »
”
105 of 125 | Posted by: Aisling Keating
- Groton, MA
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Larry's Family and Friends at this difficult time. I will forever remember Larry's warm smile, kind heart and...Read More »
”
106 of 125 | Posted by: Donna and Greg Gilardi (Donna Bowles) - MA
“We'll miss you very much Larry. Keep the music going .
”
107 of 125 | Posted by: Maudie, Steve & Tori - Brockton, MA
“I am so sorry to read about the passing of Larry. I looked forward ea week to listning on 1550 to Larry & all the traditional music he played. I...Read More »
”
108 of 125 | Posted by: Sheila Bennett - Waltham, MA
“Oh behalf of The Cambridge School of Weston community, I send sincerest condolences to your family.May your celebration of his life be joyous, and...Read More »
”
109 of 125 | Posted by: Sherrill Bounnell
“Phyllis and family, you will hear countless tributes to your beloved husband and father and the amazing thing is, they're all true. Larry was a...Read More »
”
110 of 125 | Posted by: Joe Fenton - Walpole, MA - friend
“To Phylis and Family,
Maire and I are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our dear friend Larry. He was truly a wonderful man who enriched...Read More »
”
111 of 125 | Posted by: Jack & Maire Meehan - Quincy, MA
“Dear Phyllis and Family,
Larry was such a good and gracious man, and we are so sad to hear about his passing. He will be sorely missed. We are...Read More »
”
112 of 125 | Posted by: Tom & Jen Hedderman - Delmar, NY
“Larry,
My mentor, friend and inspiration my thoughts are with you. You will be missed. To Phyllis, my love to you and prayers to the family.
...Read More »
”
113 of 125 | Posted by: Bob Condon - Cortez, CO - Friend
“To all the Reynolds family, both in Ireland and in Boston, I just want to say what a remarkable person Larry was. He inspired us all. Many's the...Read More »
”
114 of 125 | Posted by: Grace Timlin - Boston and Galway, MA
“Dear Phyllis and family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. You welcomed me into your home as a young girl for fiddle lessons with Seamus. There was...Read More »
”
115 of 125 | Posted by: Eileen (Folan)Cadogan - Medway, MA
“Phylis and family,
We send our sincere condolences to you all. Larry was a magical person in ways that he made so many happy with not just his...Read More »
”
116 of 125 | Posted by: Clare Connolly Welch - Waltham, MA
“To our dear Phyllis, Mike, Sean, Larry, and your whole family,
You have lost a dear husband and father, and Elizabeth and I have lost our dear, dear...Read More »
”
117 of 125 | Posted by: Paul Mulvaney - friends
“My sympathy to the Reynolds Family. Thanks to Larry for his role in bringing Irish Music to Boston and starting CCE Music School. It was a pleasure...Read More »
”
118 of 125 | Posted by: Una Murphy - CCE student
“What a lovely and wonderful man.He helped open the door to Irish trad music to me and so many other aspiring musicians with his smile and warmth and...Read More »
”
119 of 125 | Posted by: Sean Higgins - Falmouth, MA
“Sean, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your father. There are no words to describe the hurt to you. I can only say that I hope one day that...Read More »
”
120 of 125 | Posted by: Kerri Egan - Braintree, MA
“I shall miss Larry so much, he was such a sweet man, I'll miss his beautiful music he always played. My heart goes out to the whole family. we all...Read More »
”
121 of 125 | Posted by: Celestina Cimino
“Phyllis and family, I am at a loss for words to hear this news. I loved Larry as did everyone who had contact with him. I feel priveleged to have...Read More »
”
122 of 125 | Posted by: Jane Corrigan - Watertown, MA
“Páraic and our family join me in offering our most sincere condolences to Phyllis and family on the passing of a great nobleman Larry Reynolds. He...Read More »
”
123 of 125 | Posted by: Máirín Uí Chéide-Keady - MA
“Last fall, when I had just moved back to the area after 30 years away, I came to the Skellig session for the first time. I felt very shy, but Larry...Read More »
”
124 of 125 | Posted by: Lila Feingold - Waltham, MA
“Phyllis and family
Jeanne and I send our condolences as we mourn the passing of a remarkable person. My first memory of Larry is when I attended...Read More »
”
125 of 125 | Posted by: Michael Hickey - MA
View Video Tribute
Waltham – Mr. Lawrence F. Reynolds, Sr., of Waltham, died Wednesday, October 3, 2012 at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. He was 80.
Larry was born in a little town called Ahascragh in County Galway, Ireland on September 22, 1932 and was raised there, the 12th of 13 children, 6 girls and 7 boys born to the late Cornelius and Mary (Kenny) Reynolds.
Larry's boyhood home was a well-known gathering place for music and house dancing, where there was "never a shortage of either." He began to learn the fiddle at age 10 when his oldest brother Harry bought one for him and his sister Betty, working as a domestic for a family in Ballinasloe, paid for lessons.
He played with a couple of different bands in Ireland before immigrating to Boston in 1953, where he met his future bride, Phyllis M. Preece, a piano player. They were married on April 30, 1954 at Saint Bernard's Church in Concord and were blessed with 7 children—6 boys and 1 girl. Over the years, Phyllis imparted her knowledge of music to their children, meanwhile graciously hosting in their Waltham home innumerable musicians, singers, dancers and friends from across the United States and Ireland.
The couple lived in Somerville and in Lexington for a time before moving to Waltham in 1964. Larry worked all of his life as a carpenter with Local 67 of the Carpenters Union in Boston. His family and friends attest to the fact that Larry was a man of boundless energy, devoted to his family and to his Church and was filled with a generosity of spirit that infected those around him. Larry's word was his bond and his vise-like handshake assured those he loved and cared about his enduring loyalty.
Although he earned his living using his hands to build things his real passion in life was to use those hardworking, coarse hands for a gentler purpose . . . to build beautiful music. Having hosted the Comhaltas Concert Tour Group in 1973, '74, and '75, Larry and others founded the Boston Hanafin-Cooley Branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann (CCE) in 1976, an organization promoting traditional Irish culture, music and dance in the Boston area. He had served as chairman of the group and treasurer of the North American Provincial Council of CCE. Larry was inducted into the organization's Hall of Fame in November, 2002.
Since coming to the States in the 1950s, Larry played with several groups: The Tara Ceili Band, The Connaught Ceili Band, The Boston Ceili Band, Tommy Sheridan Band, Tara Hill and The Boston Comhaltas Ceili Band. Larry recorded with The Connaught Ceili Band and with Comhaltas band members and guests on the album We're Irish Still, produced in 1980.
In 1984, Seamus Connolly and Larry began broadcasting a one-hour radio program on Boston radio station WNTN, 1550 AM on Saturday mornings, the Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann Hour, a show that brought traditional Irish music and banter into the homes of listeners worldwide.
In addition to his beloved wife of 58 years, Phyllis, Larry leaves his children, Lawrence F. Reynolds, Jr. of Waltham, Deborah A. Bendall and her husband, Sean, of Maynard, Michael J. Reynolds of Norwood, James J. Reynolds and his wife, Diane, of Belmont, Sean W. Reynolds and his wife, Sheila, and Kevin P. Reynolds and his wife, Lisa, all of Waltham; his grandchildren, Brian, Megan, Andrew, Sara, Emma, Michael John, Tena, Eric, James, Jennifer, Tara, Kasey, Shannon, Sean, Jr., Liam, Declan, Brigid, Molly and Kevin; his great-grandchildren, Austin and Cara; his sister and brother, Eleanor Courier of Orange, California and Sean Reynolds of Ahascragh, Co. Galway and many nieces and nephews.
Larry was also the father of the late Brian E. Reynolds and a brother of the late Harry, William, Michael, Martha, Eileen, Patrick, Elizabeth, Nan and James Reynolds and Mary Guider.
Family and friends will honor and remember Larry's life by gathering for calling hours in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham on Wednesday, October 10th, from 3 to 9 p.m. and again at 9:15 a.m. on Thursday morning before leaving in procession to Saint Jude Church, 147 Main Street, Waltham where his Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow in Saint Mary's Cemetery, Needham.
Memorial donations may be made to The Larry Reynolds Memorial Scholarship Fund for the CCE Boston Music School in care of Michael Hickey, Treasurer, 100 Woodpecker Road, Stoughton, MA 02072.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam (May he rest in peace).
Visitation
October 10, 2012
3:00 PM
to 9:00 PM
Joyce Funeral Home
245 Main Street
Waltham, MA 02453
Funeral Mass
October 11, 2012
10:30 AM
Saint Jude Church
147 Main Street
Waltham, MA 02453
Interment
Thursday October 11 2012
Saint Mary's Cemetery
1 Wellesly Street
Needham, MA 02194
Life Tribute Films and Favorite Videos
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Play Video →
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Play Video → View Description →
X The final moments of Larry's send-off from Saint Jude's - his spiritual home for the past fifty years.
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Play Video → View Description →
X Charitable Irish Society 2009 Silver Key Awards Speech by Larry Reynolds
Regret could not attend funeral as I was in Europe. Larry was a humble and very kind man. Condolences to the family.
Posted by: Michael Sherlock - Roslindale, MA - Friend Oct 30, 2012
To the Reynolds family:
I was saddened to hear about the passing of Larry Reynolds 3 weeks ago and I was very sorry not to be able to attend the funeral. I understand than a thousand people attended.
I can't say enough about what Larry Reynolds has done to make it possible for me and many others like me to find a place to play Irish music and have a good time. When I met him and the rest of
To the Reynolds family:
I was saddened to hear about the passing of Larry Reynolds 3 weeks ago and I was very sorry not to be able to attend the funeral. I understand than a thousand people attended.
I can't say enough about what Larry Reynolds has done to make it possible for me and many others like me to find a place to play Irish music and have a good time. When I met him and the rest of the people at Comholtas Ceoltiori Eireann at the Canadian American Club Hall many years ago I knew I found the perfect place.
Since that time I would play there as often as I could and I would also play at the Village Coach House in Brookline and the Green Briar in Brighton. I would always bring my tin whistle and sometimes I would even bring my accoustic guitar.... even my Appalacian mountain dulcimer. Larry would always be there to encourage me to strike up a tune.
wg
Thanks to Larry Reynolds I was able to play all this great music, enjoy the company of some very wonderful people, and have fun. Larry may be gone from us now but the music will live on and I promise I will be back again playing at the Irish sessions to honor Larry's memory.
Thanks for all the good times Larry. You were awesome!
Francis X. Killoran
Posted by: Francis X. Killoran (Frank) - Jamaica Plain, MA - musical friend Oct 29, 2012
To the Reynolds family sorry for your loss
Posted by: Pauline, Paul Collett - waltham, MA - friends of family Oct 22, 2012
To Phyllis and the Reynolds children,
I wish to express my sympathy to all of you on the loss of your husband and father. I have fond memories of the Reynolds family from my days of teaching at St. Jude's. Be assured of a special remembrance in my prayers.
Sister Juana McCarthy (Sr. John Kathleen)
Posted by: Sister Juana McCarthy - Peabody, MA - Former teacher at St. Judes Oct 21, 2012
My deepest sympathies to the Reynolds family! Your home always exuded energy and "family" and I have happy memories of my friendship with Jimmy. Having just lost my Mom, I share in your sorrow. Frank Joyce and his team have put together a wonderful tribute, as they did for us! Prayers... MJ
Posted by: MJ Tierney - Shirley, MA - childhood friend of Jimmy Oct 17, 2012
What can I say that hasn't already been said? Larry will surely be missed by everyone who's life he touched, which is virtually everyone he ever met! My deepest sympathy to the entire Reynold's family. May God be with you during this most difficult time. May you see Larry in the mannerisms of each other, in the sparkle in each other's eyes, in a laugh, a saying, a hug or when you hear a certain song that he used to
What can I say that hasn't already been said? Larry will surely be missed by everyone who's life he touched, which is virtually everyone he ever met! My deepest sympathy to the entire Reynold's family. May God be with you during this most difficult time. May you see Larry in the mannerisms of each other, in the sparkle in each other's eyes, in a laugh, a saying, a hug or when you hear a certain song that he used to play. He will always be with you in your hearts where he will never die. If I may, I'd like to share a prayer that has always helped me through difficult times: Do not look forward in fear to the changes in life; rather look to them with full hope that as they arise, God, whose very own you are, will lead you safely though all things; and when you cannot stand it, God will carry you in His arms. Do not fear what may happen tomorrow; the same everlasting Father who cared for you today will take care of you then and every day. He will either shield you from suffering, or will give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace and put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginations --St. Frances DeSale
Posted by: Ruth E. (Crowell) Buxton - Dracut, MA - Friend of the family Oct 16, 2012
i would like to extend my sympaty to the reynolds family on larry.s passing.He was a tireless worker in the promotion of our music and an ispiration to all around him.I lived in boston for 16 years and came into contact with larry through my work in the bar trade and found him a true gentleman and the boston traditional music scene iwill be all the poorer for his passing.MAY THE SOIL OF HIS ADOPTED COUNTRY LIE GENTLY UPON HIM
seamus shanley
leitrim
formely brighton boston
Posted by: seamus shanley - kiltyclogher co leitrim - friend Oct 14, 2012
Dear Reynolds Clan-
I was so sad to learn of Larry's passing. He was always like a father to me. I have so many fond memories of you all. I am so grateful we had the honor to know and love you all. I know my dad and Larry and looking down on us all and smiling. I want to thank you all for sharing such a wonderful man with my family. We were so blessed by all of you. My
Dear Reynolds Clan-
I was so sad to learn of Larry's passing. He was always like a father to me. I have so many fond memories of you all. I am so grateful we had the honor to know and love you all. I know my dad and Larry and looking down on us all and smiling. I want to thank you all for sharing such a wonderful man with my family. We were so blessed by all of you. My heart is broken. I am so sad to be so far away and not be able to be by your side during this awful time.
God did not create a better man. He was loved by so many.I love love love you all.. Judy
Posted by: Judy Crowell - Harrison, ME - My other father Oct 14, 2012
My deepest sympathy to Phyllis and the Reynolds Family on their loss. I feel privileged for the many years I enjoying dancing sets to Larry's fiddle and playing tunes with him at the Green Briar sessions. We will miss his great, kind, and generous presence, but we will keep the music he gave us in our hearts, feet, and fingers forever. Thank you, Larry!
Posted by: Kathy Kire - Revere, MA - Friend Oct 13, 2012
The music never really started until Larry played.
The Coachhouse years.
Bill Watkins
Posted by: Bill Watkins - Reading Ma - Freind Oct 13, 2012
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Larry Reynolds, 80; ‘virtuoso’ of Irish fiddling
THIS STORY APPEARED IN THE BOSTON GLOBE
October 14, 2012
When Larry Reynolds emigrated in 1953 from County Galway in Western Ireland, he brought along his fiddle and a passion for the music of his homeland, and he dedicated the rest of his life to sharing that music with others.“There’s something about it that really gives you an uplifted feeling,” he told the Globe in 1994.“When you hear or play a tune, it’s very special. Some of them are lonesome in a way. But a lot of them are very bright and lifting. The next day, you find the tunes going through your head.”
A carpenter by day, he spent nights in halls and pubs, leading music sessions that were open to anyone, regardless of experience or ethnicity.
He also took pleasure in performing for the political elite, including Thomas P. “Tip” O’Neill, the former longtime US House speaker; William Bulger, who served as Senate president in Massachusetts; and Mary Robinson and Mary Mc¬Aleese, both former presidents of Ireland.
Mr. Reynolds, who also helped found the Boston branch of Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann, which promotes traditional Irish culture, died Oct. 3 in Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center of amyloidosis, a protein disorder. He was 80 and had lived in Waltham for many years.
“We have Larry to thank for sparking an Irish music renaissance in Boston and for spawning a young generation of musicians, singers and dancers to carry on his work,” Michael Quinlin, head of the Boston Irish Tourist Association, wrote in a booklet that was shared with those who attended the funeral for Mr. Reynolds in Waltham on Thursday.
Considered by many to be the unofficial ambassador of Irish music in Boston, Mr. Reynolds mastered the fiddle, led bands in Ireland and America, and launched traditional Irish music sessions at venues in and around Boston.
“He was a real talent, a virtuoso,” said Joe Fenton, former manager of the Green Briar, an Irish pub in Brighton where Mr. Reynolds led a weekly open-mike session for many years. “Of all the people I’ve met in the bar business, there was no better man than Larry Reynolds. He was such a good teacher, such a nurturing guy, and he made everybody feel they were part of the session, even amateurs.”
Quinlin, who also is a musician, said Mr. Reynolds routinely played his fiddle until well past midnight, went home to Waltham, and awoke at 5 a.m. for his day job as a carpenter with Local 67 of the Carpenters Union in Dorchester.“It was no problem for him,” he said. “He was indefatigable, larger than life.”
Lawrence F. Reynolds Sr. was born and grew up in the town of Ahascragh, the 12th of 13 children. According to family lore, a brother bought him a fiddle when he was 10, and a sister paid for him to take lessons.
Upon arriving in Boston, he immersed himself in the local Irish music scene. He also took carpentry classes at what is now Cambridge Rindge & Latin School, and worked at a machine factory, where he met Phyllis Preece, a secretary who played piano and shared his love of music.
They married in 1954 in Concord and lived in Somerville and Lexington before settling in Waltham in 1964.
All of their children became musicians, and Mr. Reynolds performed frequently with three of his sons: Larry Jr. of Waltham and Michael of Norwood, both accordionists, and Sean of Waltham, a fiddler.
“He embraced everybody, all musicians, but oftentimes it was the four of us,” Larry Jr. said.
In 1976, Mr. Reynolds helped found the Boston branch of Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann. The group, which promotes Irish culture, music, and dance, raised money for young musicians in Ireland and hosted nationwide competitions, with Mr. Reynolds as its leader for many years.
“The shows are very spontaneous, very spirited,” Mr. Reynolds told the Globe in 2003 about the organization’s competitions. “You’re never sure what’s coming next. And I always look forward to the storytelling, based in folklore; a lot of parochial stories the old-timers have passed along. It’s another form of living tradition, you know, like the music and the dance.”
Mr. Reynolds often offered his talents for fund-raisers, Quinlin said, and he rarely turned down a request to play at weddings, wakes, and other events.
He was especially known for encouraging amateur musicians he met at the Irish sessions he hosted at the Green Briar, the Village Coach House in Brookline, the Skellig Pub in Waltham, and other venues
.
To participate, “you didn’t have to be Irish, and you didn’t have to be good,” Quinlin said.“All you had to do was appreciate the music,” he said. “Larry thought that Irish music was in a way a universal language, and he was very interested in bringing it to the people. There was something real pure about his love for it.”
Mr. Reynolds played Gaelic folk music in numerous Ceili bands and was featured, along with other members of the Boston branch of the Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann, on a 1980 album “We’re Irish Still.”
He and Connolly hosted a Saturday morning radio program on WNTN-AM in Boston, and in later years, Mr. Reynolds and his son Sean were the hosts.
“I meet people who tell me that they won’t go shopping until the program is over,” Mr. Reynolds told the Globe in 1994. “That’s the reward that I get — somebody enjoying what I’m striving to do. That’s all the reward that I need.”A service has been held for Mr. Reynolds, who in addition to his wife and three sons leaves a daughter, Deborah Bendall of Maynard, two other sons, James of Belmont and Kevin of Waltham; a sister, Eleanor Courier of Orange, Calif.; a brother, Sean of Ahascragh, County Galway, Ireland; 19 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
“Whether you had reached the pinnacle of social success, or you were a commoner, he treated everyone the same,” Larry Jr. said. “He was always very gentle, caring, and compassionate, and he had a gift for making everyone feel special.”
Kathleen McKenna can be reached at kmck66@comcast.net.Larry Reynolds, 80; ‘virtuoso’ of Irish fiddling
THIS STORY APPEARED IN THE BOSTON GLOBE
October 14, 2012
When Larry Reynolds emigrated in 1953 from County Galway in Western Ireland, he brought along his fiddle and a passion for the music of his homeland, and he dedicated the rest of his life to sharing that music with others.“There’s something about it that really gives you an uplifted feeling,” he told the Globe in 1994.“When you hear or play a tune, it’s very special. Some of them are lonesome in a way. But a lot of them are very bright and lifting. The next day, you find the tunes going through your head.”
A carpenter by day, he spent nights in halls and pubs, leading music sessions that were open to anyone, regardless of experience or ethnicity.
He also took pleasure in performing for the political elite, including Thomas P.... READ MORE →
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Larry Reynolds, fiddler of local renown, is mourned.
THIS STORY APPEARED IN THE BOSTON GLOBE
October 12, 2012|Kevin CullenFrank Joyce had to keep his funeral home in Waltham open a lot later than planned Wednesday night. Larry Reynolds’s wake was supposed to last for six hours. But it took more than nine hours to get everybody through the line.
“At least a couple of thousand people,” Joyce said. “They just kept coming.”
It seemed like half of them returned to Waltham on Thursday morning, to St. Jude Church, where Larry Reynolds was dispatched from this world with the two things that embodied him: kind words and beautiful music.
A Waltham cop, perplexed by the size of the crowd that spilled out of the church onto Main Street, tugged at a photographer and asked, “Who was this guy?”
Larry Reynolds grew up in a village called Ahascragh, in County Galway, in the west of Ireland. When he was 10, his brother Harry bought him a fiddle and his sister Betty, who was working as a maid for a wealthy family, paid for lessons. He was schooled in the traditional style peculiar to East Galway, and he played for love, not money.
But money was scarce and so, like many Galwaymen of his generation, Reynolds immigrated to Boston. He was 20 years old when he got here in 1953. He fed his stomach by working as a carpenter. He fed his soul by playing his fiddle. He used his bow like a saw, to build something that would last.
If the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem led the renaissance of traditional Irish music worldwide, Larry Reynolds led it here in and around Boston. When he first got here, he played at Hibernian Hall in Dudley Square in Roxbury. He took the music to the suburbs, playing at the Village Coach House in Brookline, the Skellig in Waltham.
His hands were a contradiction. The skin that covered them was coarse, the skin of a working man who swung a hammer. But his fingers were the digits of an artist, as dexterous as a surgeon’s. For all his talent, he was a humble man. He blushed at praise. He carried his union card, Carpenters Local 67, and his fiddle case wherever he went.
He was an easy man to find on Monday nights. For a quarter century, you could find him every Monday, sitting in the Green Briar, a pub in Brighton. He didn’t go there to drink. He went there to play music, to teach music, to evangelize, really. He was a missionary, spreading the good news. Traditional music was a restorative force to Reynolds, a relaxing, mystic tonic for increasingly frenetic times.
His weekly trad sessions were low-key revival meetings. People — young and old, Irish and mostly not Irish — came to sit at Larry Reynolds’ elbow, the fiddler’s elbow. Reynolds played with some great musicians, but he liked nothing more than coaxing novices to put aside their nervousness and give it a go: a teenager shyly holding a tin whistle, an old woman trying to master the bodhran drum. A whispered word from Larry Reynolds was usually all it took for someone to lose their stage fright.
His wife, Phyllis, is an accomplished pianist, and she threw open their Waltham home to a never-ending stream of musicians and dancers and singers. Larry and Phyllis Reynolds were married for 58 years, had seven kids, and gave birth to countless musicians.
It is not an exaggeration to say that thousands of people, many of them without anything remotely Irish about them, became purveyors or lovers of traditional music because of Larry Reynolds.
And that is why, in this day and age of celebrity, thousands of people came to Waltham to say goodbye to someone who was neither rich nor famous.
Even at 80, Reynolds was in no rush to leave this world. But he would have enjoyed his funeral. He always found the liturgy of the Mass comforting. And there were even more musicians than priests in the church, and they sent him off with a slow air, “For Ireland I’d Not Tell Her Name,” which he loved.
His impact will last as long as the music. And that’s forever.
Kevin Cullen is a Globe columnist. He can be reached at cullen@globe.com. Follow him on Twitter @GlobeCullen.
Larry Reynolds, fiddler of local renown, is mourned.
THIS STORY APPEARED IN THE BOSTON GLOBE
October 12, 2012|Kevin CullenFrank Joyce had to keep his funeral home in Waltham open a lot later than planned Wednesday night. Larry Reynolds’s wake was supposed to last for six hours. But it took more than nine hours to get everybody through the line.
“At least a couple of thousand people,” Joyce said. “They just kept coming.”
It seemed like half of them returned to Waltham on Thursday morning, to St. Jude Church, where Larry Reynolds was dispatched from this world with the two things that embodied him: kind words and beautiful music.
A Waltham cop, perplexed by the size of the crowd that spilled out of the church onto Main Street, tugged at a photographer and asked, “Who was this guy?”
Larry Reynolds grew up in a village called Ahascragh, in County Galway, in the west of... READ MORE →
Posted by Frank Joyce on
October 13, 2012




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October 18, 2012