Leola L. Reynolds, 80, a lifelong resident of Ilion, passed away Monday, Aug. 15, 2005. Leola was born Aug. 20, 1924, in Ilion, daughter of the late Elliott and Frances (VanDelinder) Lester. She was a graduate of Ilion High School. On May 25, 1946, she was united in marriage with Robert J. Reynolds. They shared a special life together for 59 years. Leola was a lifelong member of the Ilion First Baptist Church. She received the Recognition of Excellence Award for her many contributions to the church in November 2002. She was a past member of the Ecumenical Council, original member of the Ilion Food Pantry, past member of the Ilion Republican Club and the West Hill School PTA, where she was known for her ability to spin records for after school dance lessons. Leola was an 11-year member of the Ilion Housing Authority. A 55-year tradition that Leola enjoyed was the annual Thanksgiving football game where she was a cheerleader for both teams. Leola gave of herself to her family and community and asked for nothing in return. Survivors include her husband, Bob; two sons, Lynn D. Reynolds and his wife Bonnie of Fort Myers, Fla. and James E. Reynolds and his wife Laura of Ilion; her two daughters, Betty R. Brewer and her husband Terrance of East Greenbush and Nan A. Grindle of Herkimer; six grandchildren, Nicole and Alex Reynolds, Jessica Reynolds, Hilary and Geoffrey Brewer and Andrew Reynolds; one sister, Betty Pozniak of Frankfort and many nieces, nephews and friends. Leola was predeceased by her brother, Thomas E. Lester. Family and friends are invited to visitation on Thursday, Aug. 18, from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at the Applegate and Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion. Leola's funeral service will commence at 1:30 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home following visitation with the Rev. Arthur R. Miner, chaplain of the Folts Homes, officiating. Procession to Mountain View Memorial Gardens for interment will follow the service. Leola's family would like to extend its thanks to Bassett Hospital and the fifth floor staff at the Folts Homes for their care and assistance. In lieu of floral offerings, please consider memorials in Leola's name to the American Cancer Society or a charity of choice. Donation envelopes will be available at the funeral home. For directions to the funeral home, click the facilities link above.