Nellie Reyes

Nellie Reyes was born on January 24, 1933, and peacefully transitioned to her eternal home on April 15, 2022, with family by her side. She is preceded in death by her husband, Lucio, her sons, Marty & Luciano, Jr., and her sweet daughter-in-law, Virginia. Her memories & storytelling will be passed on by her children: Frank, Tracy, Danny (Tammy), Hope (Toni), her grandchildren: Angela, Brian, Tomas (Karissa), Danielle, DawnAnne, Ariana, Cygney, Rita (Erik), Shane (Julie), Matthew and Chris, great grandchildren: Korban, Aniya, Elijah, Barbra, Isabella, Tomas, Erikah, Emerie, Mya, Clover, Levi, and Drew.

She is also survived by her brother, Robert Sr., sisters-in-law, Rosie, and Dolores; her “Golden Girl” sisters, Olivia, Stella, Mary and a host of extended family and friends.

Nellie was a force of nature who loved her little community of Nukaty. She was an active part of getting the neighborhood streets paved with one street being named Human Opportunities because she persevered in being part of the programs that LBJ offered. Sometimes just plain stubbornness helped her achieve goals and making calls to anyone who would listen. She could just as easily call the county sheriff if kids were misbehaving or ask if you wanted something to eat when you visited. The neighborhood kids knew her as Miss Nellie and knew when it was time for either her snow cones or tamales. The Davis family, that she loved as her own, was an integral part of her life in NuKaty, including a scolding if needed.

Nellie volunteered many, many years at the East Rural Community Center. She assumed her responsibilities three times a week to fulfill her duty as cook, bingo supply buyer, planning shopping trips “with the seniors” or just knowing to have the coffee made. She became famous for selling hamburgers for a grand $1.25. Customers came from beyond Manor for the “best burgers in town”.  Mom took great pride in her contributions to the youth and senior groups.

Mom knew how to have fun. Many others have shared memories of past dance outings at the lake or just raising a glass of bourbon with music from Manuel Donley, Vicente Fernandez, or Ray Price in the background. She continued living a full life and thoroughly enjoyed going to Vegas or nearby casinos with family and close friends.

Family and Friends will gather at Elgin Funeral Home for Visitation, Wednesday, April 20th from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM with Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 7:00 PM.  Interment will be private.