Helen I. Reynolds

Helen I. (Wilhelm) Reynolds of Rockford IL passed away peacefully on 4/29/2024.

Born 11/17/1938 in Eau Claire WI to Edwin and Irene (McCauley) Wilhelm. Lived 10 miles NW of Eau Claire until age 13 when family moved to Rockford IL. Graduated from West High School in 1957. Married James H. Reynolds August 8, 1959 in Rockford IL. Together they raised and enjoyed 7 children.

Jim introduced Helen to drag racing in 1959 and they both won many races and championships, including titles at the prestigious World Series of Drag Racing at Cordova IL.

Helen and Jim raced at Rockford (Byron) Dragway, Cordova (IL) Dragway, Lake Geneva (WI) Dragway, Oswego (IL) Dragway, Great Lakes (WI) Dragway, US30 (IND) Dragway and other racetracks. Helen’s 1956 Pontiac Chieftain and Jim’s 1962 Pontiac Grand Prix “The Tired Indian” were almost unbeatable through the mid 1960’s.

Helen also bowled for many years, and never missed her children’s many sporting events.

Helen was employed by the Amerock Corp for over 31 years. Retiring in February 1999. She remained a member of the Amerock Leisure Group.

Helen was also a member of the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd since 1952. Also, a member of the Lombardi club; life member of the Blackhawk club and Harmony Ladies Auxiliary.

Survived by 7 children, Linda (Chuck) McLean, Machesney Park IL; James (Char) Reynolds, Springfield TN; Cherry (Joe) Huenefeld, Freeport, IL; Jonathan (Carla) Reynolds, Rockford IL; Kathleen Reynolds, Rockford IL; Rick Reynolds, Loves Park IL and Randy (Amy) Reynolds, Rockford IL. Also, many grandchildren and great grandchildren, whom she very much enjoyed spending time with. Also, Beloved Sister, Delores Lane, Janesville WI and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Predeceased by parents, and brothers, Richard, Kenneth and David