Ponciano Legaspi Reyes - Obituary

onciano Legaspi Reyes, more fondly known as Rey Reyes, 84, of Fort Washington, MD passed away peacefully on September 10, 2026, with family by his bedside. Born on February 16, 1942 in Marikina, Rizal, Philippines, Rey immigrated to the United States in 1960 with determination, hope, and a commitment to building a better life by earning his citizenship through service in the U.S. Navy. In 1967, he married the former Miriam "Mimi" Fernandez of Lucban, Quezon Province, Philippines, a registered nurse who also immigrated from the Philippines. They raised two sons during a rewarding but challenging Navy career and family life, living in numerous places in the U.S. and overseas, including Rota, Spain. Rey proudly served in the United States Navy for 30 years, retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer 4. During his Navy career, he served on multiple submarines, ships, and aviation squadrons, deploying around the world. His military service was an important part of his life and reflected his dedication to service, country, and family. In his 40s, Rey found his passion for running and completed multiple races, including the Marine Corps Marathon. He also had a passion for travel, visiting dozens of countries throughout his life. After his Navy career, Rey continued traveling the world, eventually settling down in Fort Washington, MD, enjoying fellowship with his friends, especially across the mahjong table or card table. Rey deeply loved his family. He is survived by his former spouse, Mimi; his sons, Alan and Michael (Celthia); his grandchildren, Alison (Jackson) and Caitlin (Will); his great granddaughter, Annabella; his brother Armando (Bella), and many nieces, nephews, and loved ones. Rey will be deeply missed by his family, friends, fellow veterans, and the Filipino American community he was proud to call his own. We honor and celebrate his life much more than we mourn his passing, and we are all comforted by the knowledge that he is now at peace and with God. Relatives and friends are invited to Rey's Life Celebration on Tuesday, September 29, 2026 from 2 to 8 P.M. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered for Ponciano on Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at 10:00 A.M. at St. Columba Catholic Church, 7800 Livingston Rd, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Interment Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Operation Homefront, a military and veteran family support organization https://operationhomefront.org/