Smith, Dennis-Smith Funeral Home | Atlanta, GA

Obituary For Audrey C. Reynolds

Celebration of Life Service for Mrs. Audrey C. Reynolds will be held October 29, 2020 in the Chapel of Smith, Dennis-Smith Funeral Home at 1:00 pm. Viewing October 28, 2020 from 1:00pm to 6:00pm. Interment; Westview Cemetery.

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” -Romans 8:38-39

The life of Audrey Lee Christler Reynolds was the embodiment of elegance, intelligence, and wit. A true fashionista, Audrey could command a room without saying a word. Considered a trusted confidant, she was always available to lend an ear to listen or a shoulder to cry on. She believed in the presence and power of God which directed her life with a devotion and commitment to family, friends, and encouraging those she encountered to always strive to be their best.

Born Audrey Lee Christler, she was the only daughter and second child of the late Mr. Bennie L. Christler and Mrs. Inez A. Durham Christler. She was welcomed into this world on April 13, 1944, in Atlanta, GA. She absolutely loved and adored her older brother, the late Marion E. Christler. Audrey was reared in a Christian home and at the age of 11, she was baptized on May 22, 1955 at Beulah Baptist Church in Atlanta. She attended E.R.Carter Elementary School and then matriculated through Booker T Washington High School, graduating in 1961. During her high school years, she distinguished herself as an excellent student and musician. She played clarinet in Washington’s marching band. It was at Washington High School that she made friendships that would last a lifetime. Following high school, she furthered her education at Talladega College in Alabama where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics in 1965. In the Fall of 1962, she became a member of the illustrious Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, pledging Alpha Zeta Chapter. She went on to pursue her graduate education at Howard University where she earned a Master’s Degree in Mathematics and Computer Technology in 1968.

It was during her time at Howard University that she met her future husband, the late Dr. Terry James Reynolds. Audrey and Terry married December 30, 1967. While Terry completed dental school, Audrey worked as one of only two black female computer programmers for IBM in Riverdale, Maryland. Terry subsequently entered the Air Force which relocated he and Audrey to Sacremento, CA. It was during this period that Audrey and Terry were able to travel all over the world. After his tenure with the Air Force, Audrey and Terry relocated to Atlanta. In 1975, they welcomed the birth of their only child, Stacy. Audrey spent a short time managing an airport convenience store that she and Terry owned before becoming a full-time homemaker. Audrey was a chaperone and volunteer with the various organizations that Stacy participated in from elementary school throughout high school. It was not until after Stacy graduated from college that Audrey began a full-time teaching career. Mathematics was her God given talent and she used this blessing to enrich the lives of students she taught at Grady High School in Atlanta.

After retiring from education in May of 2009, Audrey continued her roles of wife and mother by caring and providing for her family. However, in 2011, her new role as grandmother to her beloved grandson Austin became her favorite past time. Austin affectionally called her “Granny Dear.” For the past nine years, Austin brought incomparable joy to his grandmother’s life as they shared an extremely precious and special bond. Whether listening to music, dining out, shopping, or spending time with friends, Audrey lived her life to her fullest. Those who knew her best fondly recall time with Audrey always involving lots of laughter. Her final years were consumed by her illness which she endured with dignity and grace like the strong, caring, and personable woman she had always been.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her loving daughter, Dr. Stacy Terrelle Reynolds; grandson, Austin Reynolds Kinlaw; sister in law Karla Stringfellow; cousins Mignon Morman Willis (Bill), Shelia Williams and Wanda Smith; nieces Regina Christler and Ante’ Stringfellow; nephew William Stringfellow; great niece Yael Jones; and a host of devoted friends, family and caregivers.

Guest Book

Dear Stacy, Your mother and I were quite close before I moved to Boston. We shared a lot of laughs and I have fond memories of her. She was always welcoming whenever Dennis and I returned to Atlanta. My prayers and thoughts are with you and Austin. Aunt Robbie

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My name is Norman "Chip" Hill. Miss Audrey was a life-long friend with my mom, Patricia Thornton Goodman. They were friends as young girls and went to Washington High school together. My mom, Miss Audrey, and Miss Doris Bebee were very close to each other, and I remember that my mom always liked being around Miss Audrey and Miss Doris. When my mom passed unexpectedly in Oct 1985, Miss Audrey was at the funeral and she spoke very powerful words about my mom, her life, and their friendship. Even though I was in a very sad and lonely state at the time, her words moved me, and I really appreciated her words and friendship to my mom. I was in the Air Force at the time, so I didn't keep in touch with Miss Audrey after my mom's passing. I'll always remember her kindness and her happy disposition. God Bless you Miss Audrey!

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Stacy, I only met Granny Dear once but she was so lovely. I could immediately see where your shining soul comes from. You will carry her love and her memory in your heart forever. Our family is here for you and Austin. Should you need anything, don't hesitate to reach out. We love you. Lori, Tammy and Mr. Milo

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Audrey and other Deltas in Alpha Zeta will always be among my fondest memories of Talladega College. Audrey and Angie have been with me in some of the happiest times, particularly during my return to Georgia. Love you both and Audrey, May your daughter and grandson know that we love you and we pray continued blessings upon them. Joyce Hill Vasser

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Spent a year with Audrey and Terry in Sacramento Calif, while serving in the Air Force. We formed an everlasting friendship that endured to the end. May she Rest In Peace. Al and Lawanda Walden

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It seems that I have always known Audrey. We walked to English Avenue Elementary School together as kids once we were transferred from E.R. Carter in our primary years. Later we attended Booker T. Washington High School(BTW) where we were in several classes together. We maintained friendship after high school when we went to different colleges; she to Talladega and I to Spelman. She was always smart, friendly, and kind. Offering sincere sympathy to her daughter Stacey and all family members. Delores Turner

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Audrey was our wonderful cousin. She was smart, kind, beautiful and comfortable in her own skin. She leaves behind a host of friends, family and students who benefitted from her wise counsel. Forever missed but not forgotten. Gregg Smith, Boca Raton, Florida

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Audrey, was my glamorous older cousin who was beautiful, smart as a whip and comfortable in her own skin. She was kind to everyone and a great listener. She will be missed by a host of friends, family and students. Gregg Smith, Boca Raton, Florida

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She was indeed the "fox" on our line of 22 at Talladega. A quiet grace, a brain, had an extraordinary gift for wearing beautiful clothes...in a manner that made them more beautiful and elegant. So glad to have been there at our 50th. She and I shared a few "secrets" over four years. Deepest sympathies to her relatives. Gwendolyn Callaway

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I will always remember Audrey with deep sisterly Delta love.She was a beautiful person and elegant in her carriage and demeanor. We celebrated our 50th college reunion with classmates on the Talladega College campus in 2015 and enjoyed being together once again. Rest in peace dear Audrey. Roberta J.

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Audrey was my Classmate and Soror at Talladega College. She will always be in my heart as a dear friend. God now has her in the palm of his hand. Rest In Peace my dear friend. Mary Alice Fitzpatrick

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Audrey was my "Big Sister" as I pledged in 1963. She was stylish and popular on campus but had time to support and advise me. I never had to guess the point that she was making but she did it with kindness and concern for my well-being. I've followed some of her advice through out the years. My most heart-felt sympathy to her family. Darlene Moore Neely Talladega College Class of 1966

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Audrey and I entered Talladega College as freshmen and together we pledged Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Throughout our college years it became obvious that Audrey was destined for greatness. She was articulate, energetic, outgoing, and intelligent. She was definitely a fashion setter and many of us tried to emulate her style. Audrey was always gracious and willing to share her time and many talents with others. We admired her tenacity. We were fortunate to have spent those four years with Audrey. We shall miss her smile and energy. Sympathy is extended to her family.

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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- Smith, Dennis-Smith Funeral Home | Atlanta, GA