Obituary: Carter Keith "Butch" Reynolds

Carter Keith "Butch" Reynolds passed away March 23, 2024, in his home in Southport, North Carolina. He was born Dec. 7, 1941, in Cloquet to Raymond and Florence Reynolds.

Carter married the love of his life, Joyce, on June 16, 1962. He was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother and friend.

Carter was a talented draftsman, carpenter, and engineer. When Carter and his young family lived in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, he worked as a draftsman for Link-Belt. On the side, Carter and Joyce founded C&R Construction, where Carter worked as its lead contractor and carpenter for more than a decade. In 1980, Carter and his family moved to Louisiana, where Carter was offered his dream career of working as an aeronautical engineer with NASA. Of all his career opportunities, Carter most enjoyed his engineer work in the space shuttle program. At home, Carter enjoyed breakfast picnics, playing 500 and basketball with his young kids, playing card games, visiting with his family and friends, summer vacations with his family, holiday dinners, and crafting wood into whatever Joyce wanted. Carter felt at home in his woodshop.

He was a talker. He befriended anyone who had a moment to drink coffee and visit. He was also fearless and adventurous. He would try just about anything at least once. After their children grew up and moved away, Carter and Joyce explored the country together. Ultimately, they landed in Hamilton, Montana for a few years and then settled in Southport.

Carter is survived by his wife, Joyce; children Rebecca, Melissa, Raymond and Keith; grandchildren, Anthony, Brittany, Grace, Sophie, Michael, Abbey, Rose and Frank; and many extended family members.

Carter is preceded in death by his son, Richard; his parents and sister; his nephew; and other extended family members.

Carter will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and anyone who knew him.

Instead of flowers, please send donations to St. Jude; Matthew's Ministry at 8500 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island NC 28465, (910) 713-2043; or the Salvation Army in Cloquet, (218) 879-1693.