Rooted in Baldwin County

Walter Reynolds is a proud product of Milledgeville—born into a family rooted in public service and raised by a community that shaped his values, voice, and vision. His education began at West End Elementary, where he was part of the final class before the school officially closed its doors. From there, he and his classmates continued on to Old Midway Elementary—another school they helped close down with their attendance—before finally landing at Blandy Hills Elementary. Walter and his classmates then attended Baldwin Middle School for what became its final year of operation before finishing their secondary education at Oak Hill Middle and Baldwin High School. All of those early school transitions taught Walter just how deeply community shifts can impact families—and the importance of thoughtful leadership during times of change.

Backstage Beginnings

At Baldwin High School, Walter found his passion for performance and production. As a member of the Marching Pride, he served as Section Leader and Truck Crew member. His love for theater performances and the arts began when theater director Mark Weaver recruited him as a freshman to run pyrotechnics for the spring production of Jekyll and Hyde. The production was a blast—literally—and it launched a lifelong interest in storytelling, music, and community events. After graduating, Walter participated in the Disney College Program, working at MGM Studios in Orlando alongside students from around the world. But he didn’t stay away long—Milledgeville soon called him home.

Finding His Voice on Local Radio

In 2007, he enrolled at Georgia Military College and began working at WMGZ-FM, “The Lake Area’s Best Hits – Z97.” If you’ve ever thought, “Man, that voice sounds familiar,” it’s probably because it is. For over a decade, Walter’s voice was a familiar presence on local airwaves. Whether broadcasting live from Lake Sinclair on Sundays or featuring local businesses and nonprofits on Winning Wednesdays, Walter used the airwaves to connect people, promote local causes, and celebrate Milledgeville.

Old Capitol Productions and a New Chapter

In 2017, Walter left the radio station and launched Old Capitol Productions, a small business dedicated to showcasing local talent, supporting community events, and lifting up the Millegeville stories that matter. Through this work, he became involved with the Central State Hospital Local Redevelopment Authority and took the lead in restoring the Chapel of All Faiths. Walter rolled up his sleeves—literally—and helped clean, repair, and reopen the chapel as a public venue. Managing the Chapel of All Faiths gave Walter the chance to connect with people from every part of the community—an experience he deeply values and one that solidified his commitment to promoting and protecting inclusive spaces for all Milledgevilleians. Walter was so successful in managing the Chapel of All Faiths that he was eventually named Interim Executive Director of the Authority. During his 18 month tenure as Interim Executive Director, Walter facilitated a variety of new campus projects that together contributed over $15 million dollars in economic impact to Baldwin County. 

Family Legacy at Central State Hospital

Working on the Central State Hospital campus wasn’t just a job—it was a homecoming. Walter is a fourth-generation member of his family to work on the campus. His great-grandfathers served in the Steam Plant and the hospital’s agricultural operations. His grandmothers, Betty Joyce Harris and Wonda Reynolds, worked in the Children’s Unit and the Veterans Unit, respectively. And his parents, Walter Sr. and Marianne Reynolds, both worked at the Department of Corrections on the CSH campus. His ties to CSH and the community that surrounds it run deep—and so does Walter’s love for the Campus and the families that worked there. Some of his most cherished memories were made just down the road on Linden Court, in the kitchen of his great-grandmother, Mammoo. Every Sunday, after attending church at Hardwick Christian Church, Walter’s family gathered around Mammoo’s table for supper. That kitchen—filled with voices, laughter, and stories—taught Walter what community truly means.

Guided by the Past, Focused on the Future

Today, as he continues to manage Old Capitol Productions and pursue a Master’s in Public Administration, Walter’s early years still guide his path. His story is shaped by service, connection, and resilience—and it begins right here in Milledgeville.