He was the founder of Donrey Media Group, a communications company with newspaper, broadcasting and cable television holdings, and outdoor advertising.

He worked during high school and successive summers at a meat packing plant to pay for his studies.

He attained the rank of Major, received the Legion of Merit, Purple Heart and Bronze Star Medal during his military service, and returned to civilian status in 1945.

Forbes Magazine noted that Reynolds's three children were to receive trust income of $50,000 a year for life, but would be left only $1 if they were to unsuccessfully contest his will.

Donrey Media Group, its subsidiaries and affiliates, owned the following broadcast stations:[3] A number of buildings are named for Reynolds, including: The Donald W. Reynolds Foundation continued his lengthy legacy of charitable giving through 2015,[5] funding programs for capital grants, aging and quality of life, cardiovascular clinical research, and journalism.