Obituary of John S. "Big Bill" Reyna

Our brother and uncle, John Reyna, age 54, was unexpectedly called to our Heavenly Father on Monday, September 14, 2020.  He joins his beloved mother, Maria Lina Reyna; his father, Jose Reyna, and his brothers, Jose Luis Reyna, Sr. and Ruben Renya, Sr.

Here is my Brothers story typed by my nephew Mathew Reyna. Johnny was fierce from birth. A natural born fighter that refused to let his situation dictate his future. Born without the ability to use any of his extremities he took on life full steam. 

He enjoyed socializing and never met a stranger. Often times you would see him cruising down Galindo, Vargas and Montopolis Dr. You probably had no idea where his destination was but rest assured, the party was on the way! Talented beyond belief. Among other things, he learned to paint and draw while only using his mouth. At the age of 18 and a senior in high school he was selected to have one of his drawings, “El Indio”, displayed in Washington DC at the White House. Then United States Representative, J.J. Pickle, arranged to have he and our Grandma flown to DC to be recognized.

Big Bill was one of a kind and will be greatly missed.  The streets of Montopolis Texas are a little quieter tonight.  Rest Easy Big Bill.

John is survived by his brothers and sisters, Rudy Reyna, Sr., “Lupe” Molina, Grace Castro, Alfredo “Freddie” Reyna, Sr., Lucy Reyna (Mike Escontrias), Norma Reyna, Roseann Davidson, Michelle Duran (John), and Ruben Reyna, Jr., and numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family and friends.

Pallbearers will be Rudy S. Reyna, Daniel Castro III, Angie Rios, Alfredo Reyna, Jr., Edward Gatica, Jose Molina, Alejandro Lira, Jr., and Melvin Alvarez, Jr.  Honorary Pallbearers will be Jose Luis Reyna, Jr., Roxanne Rios, Stephanie Castilla, and Ruben Reyna.

Visitation will begin at 5:00 p.m. with Recitation of Holy Rosary beginning at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, September 21, 2020 at Mission Funeral Home - South Side, 6204 S. First St., Austin, Texas.

Mass will begin at 1:00 p.m., on Tuesday, September 22, 2020, at San Jose Catholic Church, 2435 Oak Crest Ave., Austin, Texas. Interment will follow at Assumption Cemetery, 3650 S. IH 35 Feeder Rd.  San Jose requires pre-screening for COVID-19 prior to entry, gloves and masks are required, and everyone attending must be seated in the chapel prior to the funeral home procession arriving.  Attendees are not permitted to congregate on the steps or in the narthax/foyer.  The church suggests arriving 30 minutes prior to the start of Mass.

Rosary will be live-streamed to allow those unable to attend to participate.  Follow link to Facebook Live Mission - South Side.  Mass will also be live-streamed through San Jose Catholic Church.

Due to the Coronavirus /  COVID-19 Restrictions from the City of Austin,

capacity levels are restricted at funeral homes, churches, and cemeteries.

Each person entering the funeral home, church, and cemetery will be required to wear a mask

and to practice social distancing of 6 feet or more.   If you are ill or are concerned about the virus,

it is recommended that you not attend services. 

The family is so grateful to everyone for their understanding, love, and support

during this very difficult time.