Carmencita Javier Reyes

Carmencita Reyes Obituary Carmencita Javier Reyes (Mama), a beacon of love and joy, passed away peacefully at her home in Torrance, California, on June 27, 2025, surrounded by her adoring family. Born on October 14, 1938, in Manila, Philippines, the sixth child of Federico Javier and Carmen Barro. Mama's life was a testament to the power of love, family, and faith.
Mama met her soulmate, Virgilio David Reyes, while visiting the Nichols Air Force Base where he was stationed. Their love story was one of instant connection and unwavering devotion, leading to their marriage on Mama's birthday, October 14, 1962. The couple's journey together spanned over 63 years, filled with shared dreams and cherished moments.
Mama's life was full of love for her family. She is survived by her husband, Virgilio; their sons, Roy and his wife Katie, Virgil Jr and his wife Kimi, and Oscar and his wife Shelley; daughters, Teresa and her husband William, Maria and her husband Jim, Mina and her husband Allen, and Jamie; fifteen grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren with one more on the way; and her sister, Yolanda Javier. She was preceded in death by two brothers and four sisters, whose memories she held close to her heart.
Mama was free-spirited, open to new adventures and found joy in life. She created lasting memories on family road trips to San Francisco, weekend turn-around trips to a casino or fun days at the mall shopping and eating. She cherished her large family gatherings, loved gambling, dining out, spending time with her grandkids and her daily walks at Wilson Park. A passionate Laker fan, she followed the team and their victories with fervor, collecting memorabilia and proudly calling herself Kobe's #1 fan! She also never hesitated to share her coaching insights.
Mama was the heart of our family and made every family occasion a cherished memory. Her cooking was unmatched, and she made the best Filipino dishes. She loved to cook for the ones she held dear. Gatherings were filled with laughter, stories, playful family banter, and the aroma of her wonderful cooking - adobo, pancit, turkey with liver sauce and lumpia to name a few.
Mama's faith was the cornerstone of her life, and she instilled this deep reverence in her family. Mama's grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the apples of her eye, and she devoted herself to their care, showering them with love and attention. She lived by her favorite saying, "be happy happy," which reflected her philosophy of finding joy in every moment.
Carmencita Javier Reyes (Mama) will be remembered as a woman of adventure and passion, whose smile could brighten the darkest day. Her legacy of love, family, laughter, and faith will continue to inspire those she leaves behind. She lived a life that was full and meaningful, touching the hearts of all who knew her. Mama's spirit will forever be cherished, as her memory lives on as a guiding light for her family and friends.
Services
Rosary Recital
Friday
July 25, 2025
9:30 AM
Saint Thomas More Catholic Church
51 Market Pl.
Irvine, CA 92602
Memorial Mass
Friday
July 25, 2025
10:00 AM
Saint Thomas More Catholic Church
51 Market Pl.
Irvine, CA 92602
Luncheon in Church Hall
Friday
July 25, 2025
11:00 AM to 1:30 PM
Saint Thomas More Catholic Church
51 Market Pl.
Irvine, CA 92602
Interment
Friday
July 25, 2025
2:00 PM
Holy Sepulcher Cemetery
7845 Santiago Canyon Rd.,
Orange, CA 92869