The Syracuse Orange football family suffered another loss this weekend with the passing of Walter Reyes. The 36-year old Reyes passed away on Sunday evening in his home state of Ohio.
We know that Syracuse has a long and storied tradition at the running back position and Reyes holds the No. 2 spot on the all-time career rushing list for the Orange. His greatest game came in 2003 against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, when he scored five touchdowns in a 38-12 win. Reyes scored 46 career touchdowns for Syracuse -- with all but one coming in his final three seasons. His 45 career rushing touchdowns are 10 ahead of Floyd Little. Walter’s career numbers certainly show what a talented college football player he was during his Syracuse tenure.
As news spread of Reyes’ passing, teammates expressed their condolences and from the responses you could sense that Walter made a big impression on them for his actions off the field.
Damn Big Bro RIP. You were a big brother to me. Took me in as a freshman and helped me become a better player and better person. Taught me things I’ll never forget. Have so many memories. The R and R Show. Big Brother I love and will miss you. #WalterReyes #R&RShow #CuseFamily pic.twitter.com/xlFfR64N80
— Damien Rhodes (@Damien_Rhodes26) November 27, 2017
R.I.P. to an SU Legend, one of the runningbacks I had the pleasure of playing with, and a good husband, father, and man. #WalterReyes #RIP pic.twitter.com/4RrbJK5QVh
— Coach QB (@WingBuilderQB) November 27, 2017
I worked with Walter for a period of time and I found him to be an upbeat and engaging man who had fond memories of his time with Syracuse. His legacy on the football field only tells part of his story, but for many of us those memories of him running down the field will be a way to keep his memory alive for future Orange generations
It’s a shame when good people are taken too soon and we send our condolences to Walter’s family. A GoFundMe has been established by the family to help with funeral costs.
Rest in Peace, Walter.