Johnnie Abad Reyes

Johnnie (John) Reyes, age 83, passed away peacefully on April 24, 2025, in Ft. Washington, Maryland, leaving behind a legacy of love, storytelling, and service. Born on March 27, 1942, in the small town of Nueva Ecija, Philippines, John was the beloved son of Nena and Robert Reyes. He attended San Sebastian Catholic School before immigrating to the United States with his family, where he completed high school in Monterey, California. Shortly after, he proudly served in the U.S. Army for four years.

John dedicated over 40 years of his professional life to the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C.—a place where he poured his passion for literature and learning into his work. He married the love of his life, Wadad Judeh, on July 27, 1970, and together they shared 55 years of marriage, traveling and building a beautiful life together.

A lifelong lover of books and storytelling, John was known for writing short stories and captivating his children with tales drawn from memory and imagination. He had a deep appreciation for music, especially traditional Filipino Kundiman songs, and enjoyed rich conversations—particularly about history and politics.

John is survived by his devoted wife Wadad; their children Tarik (and Laurie), Samira (and Konn Early), Kevin Sr, (Rocky),(and Deonna), and Maha, (Amy); his grandchildren Braeden, Ty, Alexia, Yasmeen, Kevin, Layla, Aliea, Mohammed, and Sahit; his siblings Amor Samson, Linda Chan, Roberto, Emmanuel, Bernardo, and Boots. He is also lovingly remembered by nephews and nieces.

John was a role model to many. He will be remembered for his warmth, wisdom, stories, and the genuine joy he found in his family’s accomplishments and time spent together. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Pallbearers: Tarik, Rocky, Konn, Braeden, Ty, and Kevin.

We miss you dearly, Daddy. Thank you for the conversation, the laughter, and the love!