Nora “Nory” Santos Pasion Reyes passed away on August 23, 2026, in Huntington Beach, California. She was born on November 12, 1935, in Kawit, Cavite, Philippines, the fifth of nine children.

Nory’s childhood was forged in the crucible of World War II. As a young girl, she endured fear, hunger, and uncertainty of war alongside her siblings. Those early years of hardship did not break her; instead, they instilled in her a fierce resilience and an unshakable belief that “Life is what you make it.” That mantra became both her shield and her compass throughout her life.

Nory’s strength and courage were matched by a deep and abiding faith in God. Her faith was woven into the way she lived—with humility, compassion, trust, and an enduring belief that there was always a way forward.

Family was at the heart of Nory’s life, and her home was filled with love, laughter—and music. There was rarely a day in Nory’s life without music. She loved the beautiful piano melodies Jaime played for her, as well as singing contests, musicals, and Broadway shows. Music was more than entertainment for Nory; it was one of the ways she celebrated life and brought joy into her home.

Nory was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jaime Cristobal Reyes. She is survived by their four children: identical twin daughters Lynn, and Joy (sp. Mark); daughter Lorellee “Maellee” (sp. Ben); and son Mike (sp. Weng). She is also survived by her six grandchildren—David, Arielle, James, Aaron, Amari, and Kim—and one great-grandchild, Jack.

Through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild, Nory’s courage, laughter, tenderness, faith, and fighting spirit will continue to live on.

A woman who turned adversity into purpose and fear into forward momentum, Nory taught her family that vulnerability and courage are not opposites; they are two sides of the same heart. She taught them to remain humble and kind, to persevere through hardship, and to embrace life with gratitude and joy.

All who knew and loved Nora “Nory” Pasion Reyes will miss her dearly. Her legacy is not only in the life she built, but in the brave, loving, and resilient way she lived it.

Funeral Services

 Viewing

 Friday, September 18, 2026, 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., Risher Mortuary & Cremation Service, 1316 W. Whittier Blvd., Montebello, California 90640

Funeral Mass and Burial

Saturday, September 19, 2026, 12:00 p.m., Risen Christ Chapel, Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, 5835 West Slauson Avenue, Culver City, California 90230