Mary Hoffman Reynolds

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Mary Hoffman Reynolds on October 19, 2026, at the age of 71. Born on February 26, 1955, in San Francisco, California, Mary lived an extraordinary life marked by love, dedication, and unwavering courage, especially during her valiant battle with cancer.

Mary was the cherished daughter of Lawrence and Magdalene Hoffman, who, along with her brother David and her beloved husband of 46 years, Mike Reynolds, preceded her in death. Her loving spirit and compassionate nature live on through her surviving family: her son, Mika Reynolds; daughter-in-law, Alli Miller-Reynolds; and her precious granddaughter, Maggie Lou Reynolds. She also leaves behind her brother, John Hoffman; brother-in-law, Jimmy Reynolds; sister-in-law, Amy Armstrong; and an extended family who will miss her dearly.

A proud graduate of Walter Johnson High School in 1973, Mary pursued her passion for physical education at Springfield College in Massachusetts, earning her Bachelor of Arts degree in 1977. It was during her first job at the YMCA that she met Mike, a dedicated swim coach. They married on April 28, 1978, and together built a life filled with shared dreams and enduring love.

Mary's career as an educator and mentor touched countless lives. At the Cleveland, Tennessee YMCA, she served as the Women's and Girls' Director and coordinated vibrant youth sports programs, fostering a love of athletics in many young hearts. Her dedication to nurturing young minds extended to her church communities at Broad Street United Methodist Church and Blythe Avenue, where she worked as a teacher's assistant. Mary culminated her career as the director of a successful after-school program at Unity Center, leaving a legacy of learning and kindness.

A devoted sports enthusiast, Mary's loyalty to the San Francisco Giants, Washington Redskins, Maryland Terrapins, and Alabama Crimson Tide was well known among her friends and family. She also authored a book titled Close Your Eyes and See... Open Your Eyes and Discover: Explore Cleveland, Tennessee, reflecting her love of storytelling and local culture. Her home was a sanctuary of greenery, filled with countless plants she tended with care, and her family has lovingly taken in her cherished orange stray cat.

Mary embodied the virtues described in 1 Corinthians 13:4, always extending a helping hand and an open heart to those in need. Her warmth and wit were as boundless as her dedication to education, exemplified by her dedication to the "Teacher Tea" at Unity Center, an event that honored the educators who inspired her students.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Samir Rahbe, Tennessee Oncology Doctors and Treatment Nurses, Drs. Alan and Julie Koffron, and their team, and dear friends Sandy, Mary, Amanda, and many others who supported Mary throughout her journey. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to Unity Center of Broad Street United Methodist Church.

Mary's legacy of love, laughter, and learning will forever be treasured by those who knew and loved her. She leaves behind a tapestry of cherished memories and an indelible impact on her family, friends, and community. A celebration of life will be held at Unity Center, 685 Benton Pike NE on Saturday, November 7, 2026, starting at 11 am. It will be followed by a soup luncheon.