OBITUARY
Joe Lewis Torres, 75, of San Angelo, Texas, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2025.
Joe was born on October 19, 1950, in Eden, Texas, to Evangelina Ruiz and Adolfo Ruiz, and was later lovingly adopted by Guadalupe and Joe Torres.
Joe attended Eden ISD and spent much of his life working hard and caring for those around him. He began his career as a rancher in Eden before moving to San Angelo, where he worked as a custodian at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, and later retired from First United Methodist Church.
Joe was an amazing father, grandfather, and friend. When his children were young, he always made sure there was a new tree to climb and a treehouse to play in. He loved spending time with his family, and his grandchildren, whom he adored. Whether it was taking them wherever they wanted to go, keeping their little secrets, listening to their gossip, or slipping them a few dollars “just because,” Joe’s love for his family was endless.
He was also known for his humor, kindness, and genuine heart. Joe loved music, especially The Beatles and proudly collected Beatles memorabilia, joking that he had his own personal gift shop. He was a musician himself and found joy in singing and listening to music. He enjoyed watching old westerns wrapped in his Beatles blanket and cherished his daily walks (twice a day!) with his beloved dog, Bruce.
If you knew Joe, you knew he was someone you could always count on. He was the one you called when you needed to talk, needed help, or just wanted to hear a friendly voice. Even in his final days, he kept everyone laughing … posing for silly pictures with filters, joking with nurses, and sharing his trademark humor until the very end.
Joe is survived by his children Andrew Torres (Macalee Mills) and Nicole Torres; grandchildren Matthew Torres, Michael Torres, and Alina Tackett; and his loyal companion Bruce Torres. He is also survived by his siblings Willy Valverde Jr., Maria Ruiz, and Rosa Elia Lopez; in-laws Mary-Ann Escobar, Juan Hernandez, Linda (Ray) Lopez, Charlie (Connie) Hernandez, Richard Hernandez, and Alice (Robert) Wood; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents Joe and Guadalupe Torres, daughter Veronica “Ver” Torres, siblings Baby Twin Torres, Rodolfo Ruiz, and Victor Ruiz Sr.; and in-laws Raymond Hernandez and Fred Hernandez, as well as nephew Victor Ruiz Jr.
Visitation will be held at Harper Funeral Home in San Angelo, Texas, on Friday, October 31, 2025, from 5:00–7:00 PM. Funeral services will follow at Harper Funeral Home in Eden, Texas, on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM, officiated by Ray Lopez Jr. Pallbearers will be Matthew Torres, Michael Torres, Gabriel Hernandez, Mitchell Hernandez, Ruben Zuazua, and Zachary Zuazua.
As we say goodbye, we remember Joe’s laughter, his kindness, and his endless love for family and friends.
“When King Lear dies in Act V, do you know what Shakespeare has written? He’s written ‘He dies.’ That’s all, nothing more. No fanfare, no metaphor, no brilliant final words… I’ve lived all five of my acts, Mahoney, and I am not asking you to be happy that I must go. I’m only asking that you turn the page, continue reading… and let the next story begin.” — Mr. Magorium
— From Harper Funeral Home
