Christopher Riley Mena

Christopher Riley Mena, 21, passed away unexpectedly on December 31, 2025, following an automobile accident. He was born on July 30, 2004, in Raleigh to Omar Ruiz and Maria Mena. Christopher grew up in Cary and attended Cary High School, where he participated in both the football and wrestling teams. He graduated from Fuquay Varina High School in 2023.

His family will always remember him as a strong, courageous leader who worked hard for his family and had big life goals. Chris could instantly connect with anyone he met and had a funny, unique personality. He loved eating, was always up for any adventure, and camping with his friends. His favorite thing was spending time and travelling with his family.

Though Chris left this world way too soon, his family takes comfort in knowing he is now present with his almighty Lord and Savior. All his family and friends will greatly miss him, but his memory will live on forever in the stories they will share.

Chris is survived by his parents: Omar Ruiz and Maria Mena; sisters: Chiara Mena, Fiorella Mena; brother, Matthew Mena; as well as his large extended family.

A service to celebrate his life will be held at 11:00 am, Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at L. Harold Poole Funeral Service Chapel, 944 Old Knight Road, Knightdale. A graveside service will follow, at 2:30 pm, at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens, 1621 NC 55, Fuquay Varina.

The family will receive friends and relatives prior to the service, from 10:00 to 11:00 am, at the funeral home.