John Reichley, Class of 1983

John Patrick Reichley passed away on Monday, October 12, 2026 at the age of 65 after a long illness. Born on June 2, 1961, John grew up in New Lexington, Ohio. He was the beloved son of Harold L. Reichley and Eleanor M. Reichley.

John graduated from New Lexington High School and attended Muskingum College, Ohio State University and Capital University Law School, where he received his Law Degree. John began his legal career at the Attorney General’s Office while attending law school, where he was later appointed as Section Chief of the Court of Claims.

John loved his family and friends. Throughout the years, he developed a love for cooking and perfecting his grandmother’s favorite Italian recipes. While living in Columbus, he joined the Columbus Italian Club where he prepared those same recipes at his Annual Italian Dinners. John also remained a devoted OSU fan throughout his life.

John possessed an infectious zeal for life, had a generous spirit and a natural ability to connect with others. He was a wonderful uncle to his nieces and nephews and loved them very much. He enjoyed spending time with them and attending their numerous sporting events. John also had many wonderful friends whom he loved dearly. They were a very important part of his life, especially during his illness. They showed constant compassion, kindness and support to John.

John is survived by his loving family; mother, Eleanor Reichley, siblings Nancy (James) Russell, Jamie (Joseph) Fisher and Ginny Grilli, Michael Reichley and Tony Reichley. In addition, John is survived by several nieces and nephews; Christopher (Debbie) Russell, Benjamin Russell, Michael (Rachel) Russell, Jimmy Russell, Anthony Fisher, Alison Hillis, Molly (Bo) Dupler, Joey (Alisha) Fisher, James (Beth) Grilli, Nicholas (Julie) Grilli, Annie (Michael) Drummond and many, many great nieces and nephews. In true “Johnny” fashion, he is survived by so very many trusted friends whom he loved dearly, too numerous to mention. He was preceded in death by his father, Harold L. Reichley.