Remembering the life of Reginald Dwight Linyear

Reginald D. Linyear was born on August 27, 1944, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to the late Jesse and Ruth Linyear.

Reginald graduated from Xavier Prep High School (New Orleans) in 1961. His education continued with advanced studies at Louisiana State University (New Orleans), Southern University of New Orleans, an Associate Degree in Accounting and Business Administration from Straight Business School (New Orleans) and concluded with earning a Bachelor of Science in Community Education from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee in 1975.

Reginald was a devoted Catholic, baptized at Blessed Sacrament Church in New Orleans. After arriving in Milwaukee, he joined St. Boniface Church and was a faithful member of St. Martin de Porres at the time of his passing. Commissioned as a Lay Minister in 1986 under the guidance of Rev. Dennis Lewis (St. Boniface Church), he served tirelessly throughout the Archdiocese of Milwaukee in several roles, including church trustee, parish council, and the finance committee. Reginald shared his faith through service as a Eucharistic Minister, Stations of the Cross prayer leader, call to worship and, hospitality minister. His skills in facility and logistics management were a great asset, along with his knowledge of engineering. Reginald was a very talented photographer, capturing many memorable moments of the Church and the community. Reginald rarely left home without his camera.

Reginald was united in holy matrimony to the late Minnie Linyear on December 21, 1968, in Milwaukee, to this union two children were born.

Reginald began his professional career in New Orleans within the Federal Government for the I.R.S. He subsequently moved into the private sector, holding various positions with Chevron Oil Company. He was then recruited for JC Penny’s Milwaukee Sales Manager Training Program – however after completing the program he decided to forgo a career in sales to spend more time with his family on weekends. Eventually, he became the chief employment officer for the Inner City Development Project – Malcolm X Center. His career came full circle when he returned to the Federal Government as a part of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission where he served as a federal investigator for 30 years. Reginald fought tirelessly to enforce civil rights laws against workplace discrimination before retiring in 2006.

Reginald engaged in many activities in his leisure time. He enjoyed building and flying remote control airplanes, collecting model trains, and spending time at the library. He was physically active throughout his life; he enjoyed bicycle riding, bowling, swimming, and roller skating at Butler Skateland. Reginald enjoyed almost anything related to automobiles and do-ityourself projects. He was a master of many subjects and found joy in sharing his expertise with anyone who needed assistance. A fan of football, Reginald also enjoyed cheering for the Chicago Bears and New Orleans Saints. He was also a proud and active member of the Xavier Prep Class of 61’ alumni club.

The family was central to Reginald and he especially enjoyed bonding during long road trips – often using the C.B. radio to find the shortest and safest route. He enjoyed teaching his grandson Brenden about all the things he knew and loved.

Reginald not only gave time to his family, church and shared his NOLA second line expertise at the annual Knights of Peter Claver Mardi Gras ball – he also took pride in being a caretaker for over 45 years to a former coworker. Reginald was an often sought-after guest speaker sharing his principles, wisdom, and reflections on Fatherhood in the community. In 2018 he was recognized as a “R.E.A.L (Respectable, Earnest, Aware, Loving) Man” during the annual Father’s Day program sponsored by the Rosary Plus Group of St. Martin de Porres.

Reginald and his late wife Minnie were consummate travelers. Places visited included the Mediterranean, the Holy Land, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Chile, China, Japan, New Zealand, Uruguay, and Egypt. Their U.S. tours included Alaska, Hawaii, and a Western Tour covering the U.S. National Parks – capturing photos and sharing stories inspiring others to travel.

Reginald departed this world on Saturday, November 6, 2021, surrounded by his loving family. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 50 years, Minnie, parents Jesse and Ruth Linyear, and his brother Kevin Linyear.

He leaves to cherish his memory: children, Derron Linyear, Miami, FL; Deatrice Linyear-Davis (Ronnie), Snellville, GA; beloved grandson, Brenden Davis, of Snellville, GA; brother, Keith Linyear Sr. of New Orleans, LA; brother-in-law, Reverend Ernest Davis Jr. (Ret.), Albany, GA; nephews, Keith Linyear Jr. of New Orleans, LA, and Lawrence (Arnica) Linyear of New Orleans, LA; and a host of cousins.