Catalina Reyes

Catalina Padilla Reyes, 93, passed away peacefully earlier this week. Born in Independence, Kansas on March 22, 1931, she spent her early years in Mexico City, where she was raised before coming to Kansas City, Missouri, to marry her beloved husband, Sistos Reyes, of 66 years. Together they raised their family in the Westport area.

Catalina, also often known as Catherine to many, was known for her warmth, strength, and dedication to her family and community. She began her career in Kansas City’s historic garment district before embarking on a diverse path of service. She owned and operated a daycare center, shaping the lives of many young children. Later, she shared her love for the Spanish language, offering lessons to local police officers, clergy, and other professionals, helping bridge cultural gaps in her community. This same love for her heritage continued when she worked as a librarian at the Irene H. Ruiz Public Library on the Westside for many years. While there she continued to enrich the lives of countless patrons. Catalina dedicated her time to celebrating and preserving her Mexican heritage into her retirement. She was known for her incredible sewing skills, which she used to create a stunning display of dolls dressed in traditional costumes from Mexico and South America. This dedication to preserving and showcasing these cultural traditions led her to be invited by numerous organizations to present her collection, an opportunity which she cherished greatly. One of her greatest joys was Mariachi music, a love sparked during her youth when her father introduced her to the vibrant melodies in Plaza Garibaldi, Mexico City. The music remained a treasured part of her life, connecting her to her roots and the memories of her dear father.

Catalina’s legacy will continue through the family and friends she leaves behind. Over her 93 years she was able to impact many lives. She will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to her family and heritage. She is survived by her 8 children, 14 grandchildren and multiple great grandchildren: John and his wife Mary Angela (Parra) Reyes, Laura Reyes Schneider and her husband Cary Schneider and their two daughters, Daniel Reyes and his three children, Michael Reyes, Tony and his wife Annie (Ortiz) Reyes and their three daughters, Phillip and his wife Tammy (Holzum) Reyes and his 2 children, Mario and his wife Johanna (Gaona) Reyes and their son, and Alicia Reyes Satre and her husband Tim Satre and their three children.

Visitation will be 9 – 10:30 a.m. with the Rosary being prayed at 10:30 a.m., Friday, Oct. 4, 2024 at McGilley & Hoge Johnson County Memorial Chapel, 8024 Santa Fe Dr., Overland Park, KS. A Memorial Service will follow at 11 a.m. Celebration of Life will follow at the Matt Ross Community Center, Overland Park, KS.