PHILANTHROPIST
Legacy after his death
“I have nothing of value. Everything can be thrown out.” 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, the man himself—his inspiring way of viewing life and acting.
General gratitude
The only obituary published in the press and written by the then-Vice President of the Bank (who did not take Luis Valls’ request to leave the world in silence seriously), stated: “Many of us owe you a lot, and quite a few owe you everything.” This is true. Among former employees of Banco Popular, it is not unusual to find numerous people who say that their lives were marked indelibly by Luis Valls.
His example as a banker, humanist, and philanthropist is a significant inspiration for new generations seeking success in life, both professionally and personally. What idea permeated Luis Valls’ way of living inside and outside his office as President of Popular? A very simple yet complicated one: If you can help others, you help them. And even better if you do it without letting your left hand know what your right hand is doing – something 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 legacies of Luis Valls
It is well known that the sole heir of Luis Valls’ was the Fundación Fomento de Fundaciones, which today coordinates the management of the three foundations of the Beatriz Building. However, these foundations do not survive solely with the money received after Luis Valls’ death. Every criterion of operation, 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.
