Herbert Gonzales Torres, age 81, of Lake Jackson, Texas joined his Heavenly Father, Wednesday, February 26, 2020 in Lake Jackson. Herbert was born March 21, 1938 in Coleman County, Texas to Benito Torres and Longina (Gonzales) Torres. He was a 1959 graduate of Brady high school. Herbert married Mary E. Guajardo on July 24, 1965 in Dallas, TX. He served in the Texas National Guard Division 36 for 8 years. He attended Howard Payne University in Brownwood, TX, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Music and Spanish. As a school teacher he taught for Brazosport ISD for 40+ years, retiring in 2003.
Herb was born on a ranch in the former Rodeo Capitol of the world, Coleman, TX. His father, Benito Torres, was a well-known wrangler, ranch foreman, and violin and guitar player in Central Texas. So Herb grew up living and loving the rough and tough Cowboy life. Herb’s country roots go way back. His great grandfather on his mother’s side, Don Jenovevo Gonzales, was a ranch hand for the infamous and legendary Jude Roy Bean…otherwise known as “The Law West of the Pecos”. Having been raised in such a country setting, naturally Herb, following in his father’s footsteps, developed a passion for horseback riding and horse training which he pursued for most of his life.
Herb also had an incredible passion for music. Especially country music and old Spanish ballads as they exemplified the life he grew up in. In High School, besides lettering in sports, he won the coveted honor of “Best Singer of Brady High School, Brady, TX. The geographical Heart of Texas. He also won 1st place in District and in Area. In State he won 2nd place due to an unfortunate microphone failure as he, a solo performer, competed against ten bands in the Municipal Auditorium of Austin, TX. Herb’s continued pursuit of music led to multiple recording s with Van, Golden Eagle and Rattler Record labels. One of Herb’s records was backed by famous country and western singer and musician Mickey Gilley. Herb also sang chorus background for a recording for B.J. Thomas called “That Was A Long, Long Time Ago” and played with Abraham Quintanilla (Selena’s Father) and his Dinos. Herb performed as a guest artist with “The Raiders” and other groups in night clubs and had the honor of entertaining at a Texas gubernatorial function. However, perhaps one of the most distinguished honors Herb has achieved, is having his original song “Tribute to J.F.K.” in the Kennedy Memorial Library. He was indeed a very versatile musician and singer who was known to ably play and sing all types of music; country, popular, mariachi and classical.
In addition to being a singer and composer, Herb had a passion for teaching. He was a certified teacher with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music and Spanish. His biography as an educator appears in the prestigious “Who’s Who” among American Teachers, to which he was nominated several times by his students. Herb was loved, respected and affectionately known as “El Senor Torres” by his students. He was often seen walking the halls singing ballads on his 6 string acoustic guitar which he kept in his classroom. He would often sing in class to the delight of many students and teachers. He strived for only the best for his students and all who came in contact with him. He was known as a true “Gentleman” and role model for students and teachers alike.
He was a stern yet kind man. Strong and demanding, yet gentle, encouraging and nurturing. Herb loved his family beyond measure and always tried to uplift those around him. Herb would often have his family sing and quote scripture to and with him. He enjoyed discussing matters of the “unknown” and mysteries of the universe. Herb was a son, brother, husband, father, grand-father and above all, a child of our most High God. His family will surely miss him more than words can say, the hurt in their hearts is real. But he, and they all rejoice in the light and legacy he has left with them.
Funeral services for Herbert Torres will be held at 2:00pm Saturday, March 7, 2020 at the First Baptist Church in Brady with Rev. Daniel Sanchez and Carlos Cruz officiating. Interment with will follow at Rest Haven Cemetery in Brady. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Leatherwood Memorial Chapels in Brady. Friends may view Herbert’s Memorial Video Tribute and/or sign the online memorial guest book at www.leatherwoodmemorialchapels.com or https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries.
Herbert Torres is survived by his wife of 54 years, Mary Torres of Lake Jackson, Texas; sons H. Matthew (Stefanie) Torres of Lake Jackson, TX; Adam Torres (Stephanie) of Kaufman, TX; and daughter Natalie (Ray) McIntyre of Lake Jackson, TX; brothers Frank Torres, Fernando Torres and Raymond (Linda) Torres, all of Brady, TX; sister Mary (Jesse) Melendrez of Brownwood, TX; grandchildren Randy McIntyre, Anthony McIntyre, Aaron McIntyre, Race McIntyre; Savannah Torres, Aubrey Torres, Kahlan Torres; and 5 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Enrique Torres, Danielito Torres, Benito Torres Jr. and his sister Henrietta Castaneda.
