Emilio Reyes Jr.

Emilio Reyes Jr., born on August 22, 1948, in Kennedy, Texas, to Emilio Reyes Sr. and Santos Reyes, lived a life full of love, service, and quiet strength. Growing up as the child of migrant workers, Emilio learned the value of hard work and perseverance early on. His journey took him to the US Army, where he served honorably in Vietnam.

After his service, Emilio settled in Abilene, Texas, where he met Betty Flores, the woman who would be by his side for nearly 51 years. They married on December 22, 1973. Together, they raised two wonderful daughters, Cassandra Lopez and Chenoa Rocha, who blessed them with four beautiful grandchildren: Aydin, Emilee, Gabriella, and Gavin.

Emilio was the rock of his family, his love, service, and generosity extended well beyond his immediate family and he was always supportive, though he was a man of few words. His son-in-law Marcus fondly recalls a two-hour trip to a track meet with Emilio, marked by unending silence, except once when Emilio asked if he was cold.

Emilio's dedication extended beyond his family to his community. He was deeply involved in his daughters' softball association, always present at games and practices, coaching and encouraging the young athletes. His professional life was spent at the phone company, he started at Western Electric where he weathered multiple acquisitions and name changes with steadfast commitment until he retired from Lucent Technologies in 2003 after 37.5 years of service.

In addition to his dedication to family and community, Emilio had several hobbies that brought him joy. He loved walking. He was an avid tinkerer and a lifelong learner, often building and rebuilding computers. He was also an avid video game player, indulging in this pastime until he no longer could. He loved reading and watching movies, taking in each story with the people he loved around him. He enjoyed riding his bike, a hobby that kept him active and connected with his surroundings to almost the very end.

Emilio was unparalleled as a grandfather, or ‘Papa’ as his grandchildren called him. He played with his grandchildren, took them for ice cream, and even changed the occasional diaper. He demonstrated his boundless love and patience. Emilio's legacy is carried on by his wife Betty, his daughters Cassandra Lopez and Chenoa Rocha, his sons-in-law Marcus Lopez and Nathan Rocha, his grandchildren Aydin, Emilee, Gabriella, and Gavin, his brothers and sisters-in-law Robert and Linda Reyes and Roland and Elvia Reyes, his sister Lupe Leal, and numerous nieces and nephews that he dearly loved. He was preceded in death by his parents, Emilio and Santos, and two sisters Geneva and Lydia.

Emilio Reyes Jr. leaves behind a legacy of love, quiet strength, and unwavering support. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered by those who had the honor of knowing him.