Manuel Cantu Reyes

San Benito, Texas— Manuel Reyes, 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was the eldest of seven children and leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and devotion as a son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.

Manuel was a man of many talents, often referred to as a "jack of all trades." He was steadfast in his principles and always honored his word. Manuel’s resourcefulness and determination led him to teach himself a variety of skills throughout his life. A proud migrant worker in his early years, he worked hard to build a foundation for his family and future.

Family was at the heart of Manuel’s life. He cherished every moment spent with his children and grandchildren, and his love for them was immeasurable. He married Marianela Reyes, the love of his life, at the age of 21. From the moment they met, Manuel knew she was the one, and they shared 66 beautiful years of marriage.

In his earlier years, Manuel worked as an electrician and mechanic, but it was as a locksmith for the San Benito Independent School District that he truly found his calling. He retired from this position to dedicate more time to his family and his passions.

After retirement, Manuel embraced the joy of outdoor life, tending to his yard and spending hours farming. One of his favorite pastimes was sitting under the shade of his tree in the evenings, enjoying the breeze. That peaceful moment was a source of comfort for him, and now, whenever the breeze rustles the trees, we will remember that Manuel is watching over us.

Manuel will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Marianela Reyes; his children, Maribel Reyes (Fred), Martin Reyes (Belen), Mario Reyes (Irma), and Mike Reyes (Adriana); his siblings, Marianela "Nela" Gonzalez, Yolanda Gonzalez (Ramiro), and San Juana Limon (Alfonso); his grandchildren, Erica Lopez, Eliazar Ramos Jr. (Brenda), Martin Reyes II, Matthew Reyes, Ethan Reyes, Emma Reyes, Kaylie Salazar, Haley Reyes, Elynna Reyes, Ruby Cavazos, Rachel Giorno, Jacob Robles, Cindy Salazar, and Deborah Salazar; and his great-grandchildren, Khloe Ramos, Gage Ramos, Serenity Cavazos, Destiny Cavazos, Ethan Giorno, Patience Shoonover, and Daliza Robles.

Manuel was preceded in death by his parents, Enrique and Josefina Reyes; his sister, Irma Reyes (Ramon); his brother-in-law, Roy Gonzalez; his brother, Enrique Reyes; and his son, Manuel Reyes Jr.

A visitation for Manuel will be held on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Funeraria Del Angel Mont Meta.

A chapel funeral service will be held Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 10:00 AM, with a burial to follow at 11:00 AM at Mont Meta Memorial Park.

Services are under the guidance of Funeraria Del Angel Mont Meta & Mont Meta Memorial Park. A dignity service provider. Services are under the direction of Shellie Vidos, F.D.A, and Daniel Roberto Gomez.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for the Reyes family can be shared at www.montmetafuneralservices.com