Emma L. Reyes

Emma L. Reyes, beloved wife, devoted mother, and woman of abiding faith, passed peacefully from this life on April 30, 2026. She was 79 years old. Born on April 14, 1947, in Alpine, Texas, to Conrado and Zobeida Dutchover Arriola, Emma was raised with a deep love of family and faith that would define every chapter of her life.

A graduate of Marfa High School, Emma went on to earn her license as a Vocational Nurse (LVN), dedicating her professional life to the care and comfort of others — a calling that reflected her naturally compassionate spirit.

On January 15, 1972, Emma united in marriage with Merardo Reyes Jr. in Alpine, Texas. Their bond, built on love, commitment, and shared faith, endured a lifetime. Together they faced life’s joys and sorrows with grace, and Merardo remained by her side through it all.

Emma will be remembered for her deep devotion to her faith and to her family, her strength in life’s challenges and losses, and the quiet grace with which she lived. Her life was a testament to love — the kind that is patient, steadfast, and willing to bear all things.

Emma’s faith was not only lived privately but expressed joyfully in community. She was a cherished member of the Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church Choir, lifting her voice in worship for many years, and a dedicated member of the Guadalupanas, the faith society devoted to Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Emma was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Conrado and Zobeida D. Arriola, and by her precious children: Baby Jeffrey, Karen Kristine, and Erica Marie Reyes.

Emma is survived by her devoted husband, Merardo Reyes Jr.; her brothers Conrad Arriola and wife Bertha, and Michael Arriola and wife Eva; her sister-in-law Rosario DeLaO and husband Roman. She is also lovingly survived by her nieces and nephews: Kathy, Steven, Amanda, Kim, Jessica, Linda, Jackie, Conrad Jon, Kristin, Jaxson, and Juliana.

Funeral services are as follows: A Rosary and Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 • 10:30 AM at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Alpine, Texas. Burial will follow at Holy Angels Cemetery.

“May her soul rest in the peace she so faithfully sought.”