Carmen Reyes
It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of our beloved Carmen Reyes, who peacefully left this world at the age of 87 on Tuesday, April 29, 2025. Surrounded by her cherished family, Carmen slipped away gently in her sleep, leaving behind a legacy rich in love and warmth.
Born on March 6, 1938, in Peoria, Arizona, to Jesus and Maria Lopez, Carmen’s early years were filled with adventure as she traveled with her family before they settled in Soledad. It was here that she met her soulmate, Pablo Reyes. Their hearts intertwined on May 29, 1965, when they exchanged vows in a beautiful ceremony, embarking on a lifetime journey together that was filled with laughter, unwavering support and cherished shared adventures.
Carmen was a beloved figure who worked seasonally at the Asgrow Seed Company during the late 1970s and early 1980s. While she found enjoyment in her job, her deepest passion lay in nurturing her family, a role she embraced with unwavering devotion. With an inherently graceful spirit and a humble heart, she lovingly cared for her husband, children, and grandchildren, pouring her heart into their lives. She also offered compassionate support to her parents in their later years, demonstrating her boundless capacity for love and kindness.
Carmen was especially renowned for her exceptional baking; her delightful chocolate chip cookies and rich chocolate brownies brought joy to family gatherings, and her famous fruitcake became a cherished tradition during the holidays. Her backyard stood as a vibrant sanctuary, filled with colorful flowers and plants that mirrored her nurturing inclination. It was here that she found solace and profound joy, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Beyond her gardening, Carmen found pleasure in playing games on her iPad, immersing herself in romance novels, and enjoying tennis matches. She had a remarkable affinity for the stray cats that would wander into her yard, always ready to extend her kindness and care. Together with her loving husband, Pablo, she created countless joyful memories at the casinos, particularly at Chumash, where they shared warm laughter and excitement.
Carmen’s loving spirit will continue to live on in her daughter, Angelica (Manuel) Reyes, and her son, Paul (Candie) Reyes, along with her six cherished grandchildren: Alexandria (Jacob) Duarte, Melissa (Tony) Reda, Manuel Paul Reyes (Tatiana), Paul Anthony Reyes, (Alicia), Joey Perez (Michelle), and Dayna Perez. She was also a treasured great-grandmother to Izaac, Elara, Collin, Ethan, and Fabian. Carmen is survived by her brother Gilbert (Margo) Lopez, her brother-in-law Gilbert (Helen) Reyes, her sister-in-law Oralia “Laly” Baez, former daughter-in-law, Tammi Reyes, and numerous nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Pablo Reyes, her parents, Jesus and Maria Lopez, and her siblings, Jesus Lopez, Manuel Lopez, Alicia Sweet, and Gloria Burgoz.
A woman of immense faith in God and resilience, Carmen left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her compassion and warmth touched the hearts of many, making her a remarkable presence in their lives.
In honor of her life, a funeral mass will be held on Friday, June 13, at 10:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Solitude Catholic Church in Soledad. Following the service, we will gather to lay both Pablo and Carmen to rest at the Soledad Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, in memory of the shared faith and love that embodied both Pablo and Carmen.