PHILANTHROPIST
Legacy after his dead
“I have nothing of value. Everything can be thrown away.” Luis Valls made this clear in a letter he left to Francisco Aparicio, his executor, shortly before his death. Nothing of material value, that is, as his most incredible legacy was, in fact, himself—his inspiring way of viewing life and acting.
General Gratitude
The only obituary published in the press, written by the then-Vice President of the Bank (who did not take Luis Valls’ request to leave in silence seriously), stated: “Many owe you a lot, and quite a few owe you everything.” This is true. Among former employees of Banco Popular, it is common to find numerous people who say they live with the indelible mark left by Luis Valls.
His example as a banker, humanist, and philanthropist is a significant inspiration for new generations seeking success in life, professionally and personally. What idea permeated Luis Valls’ good deeds inside and outside his office as President of Popular? A very simple yet complicated one: If you can help others, you help. And you do it without letting your left hand know what your right hand is doing, as he always tried to do in life, emulating the teaching of Jesus Christ as recorded by Saint Matthew. One of his legacies, therefore, are those foundations he inspired and encouraged, which still today—and for many years to come—continue to help the underprivileged while firmly supporting the education of anyone who wants to study, regardless of their means.
The Inheritances of Luis Valls
It is well known that the sole heir of Luis Valls’ will be the Fundación Fomento de Fundaciones, which today coordinates the management of the three foundations under the Beatriz umbrella. However, these foundations do not survive solely on his money after Luis Valls’ death. Each operating criterion, beneficiary selection, and program implementation are still imbued with Valls’ way of doing and thinking, reflecting what truly made him happy. Although he intentionally did not want any recognition, gratitude, or homage during his lifetime (he even left it in writing when he sensed his end was near), Luis Valls leaves behind a story that deserves to be told and admired. In 2026, the centenary of his birth will be celebrated; there could not be a more appropriate moment for this tribute. Today, his legacy is more alive than ever, and it is essential to make it known, as we all agree that it is everyone’s mission to create a better society.
