Matilde Reyes Fuentes

Matilde Reyes Fuentes, 88, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026. She was born on March 23, 1938, in Cantón Caserío Uvitas, Anamorós, La Unión Department, El Salvador, to Santos Reyes and Salome Fuentes.

Matilde was a talented and hardworking craftswoman. Alongside her beloved sister, Bartola, she made beautiful clay handicrafts, known as barro, from the home they shared. Her creativity, dedication, and connection to her community were important parts of her life.

Family was at the heart of Matilde’s life. She is survived by her children, Manuel A. Reyes and Santos Y. Medrano Guzman, and her grandchildren, Manuel A. Reyes Jr., Marisol A. Reyes, Eric D. Guzman Medrano, Glenda Y. Guzman Medrano, Isabela C. Guzman Medrano, Anthony C. Reyes, and Rebeca C. Reyes. She is also survived by her siblings, Lorenza Reyes and Juan Fuentes. She was preceded in death by her siblings Rodrigo Reyes, Inginio Reyes, and Bartola Reyes.

Matilde found joy in the simple things that made each day special. She loved spending time with the family dog, Bella, watching programs about agriculture and natural living, and, most importantly, being around her family and loved ones. Her mornings were never quite complete without her cafecito and her two “margarita” cookies. She especially cherished traveling back to her beloved El Salvador and attending church.

Matilde was well known throughout her cantón of Huertas Viejas. She enjoyed visiting with her neighbors simply to share a conversation, and she had a remarkable ability to remember everyone she met by name. She had many friends and was deeply loved by those whose lives she touched.

Matilde leaves behind a legacy of family, faith, friendship, hard work, and love for her homeland. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.