Murlene was born in Wink, Texas, October 17, 1929 to Lela and Merle Hayes. She graduated from Hayward High School in 1947 where she excelled at her favorite sport, basketball. While working at a soda fountain shop in Perry, Oklahoma, Murlene met and fell in love with James “Jay” Perry Reynolds. The two were married on July 2, 1955 and subsequently moved to Norman in 1960. Murlene would always start her day by reading daily devotionals and scriptures from her favorite book followed by prayer. Her love for family and friends was only exceeded by her faith. Murlene was a proud member of the church choir and remained an active participant well into her upper 80’s. She was also a passionate Oklahoma Sooner and Oklahoma City Thunder fan, rarely missing an opportunity to watch them play. A tireless worker, Murlene worked for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company as a switchboard operator for 32 years and upon retirement worked another 25 years. Murlene was a kind and gentle soul that always made time to listen and help anyone in need. She touched countless lives with her quick wit, charm and compassion. Some of Murlene’s greatest joys were found in the love and admiration she had for her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and a friend to many. She will be deeply missed by those who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Murlene is preceded in death by her husband Jay, Lela Snyder Hayes (mother), Loren Hayes (brother), Maxine Harman (twin sister) and Patricia Womack (sister).
Murlene is survived by sons James Reynolds (wife Sherry) and Tony Reynolds (wife Sandra); grandchildren Natalie Yohn (husband Brandon), Megan Knudson (husband Matt), Hunter Reynolds, T.J. Reynolds and Cody Reynolds (wife Brianna); great grandchildren Zeke Yohn, Haddie Yohn and Benjamin Knudson. She will also be remembered by other family members, close friends and acquaintances.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 10:30am Saturday June 4, 2022 at First Baptist Church in Norman, OK.
