Nelda G. Torres, 70, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on August 4th, 2026. She was born November 14, 1955, to Olivia Gomez in San Angelo, TX. Our beloved “Mother” and “Grandma Coco” was a kind and sweet soul. Her life was marked by faith, compassion, and a fierce tenacity in times of adversity. She was always willing to do for others, even if it meant she was without. She was an encouragement to the broken and hurting.
Throughout Mom’s childhood, she was raised by her beloved grandmother, Paulita, who was known as “Ama.” She slept in the bed with Ama until she was 18 years old, a memory that she cherished and often reflected on. One of her fondest memories growing up was making mudpies with her sisters and cousins as they played outside. She would later exchange her carefree days in the dirt for hard labor in the fields as a young adolescent.
Mom was a hard worker. She had a strong work ethic early on that shaped her life as a single mother of three. Her determination and perseverance kept her going no matter the obstacles she faced.
Some of Mom’s passions were cooking, baking, and cleaning. She loved a clean house and the smell of fresh tortillas and beans cooking. Walking into her home, you would be met with the aroma of a meal or dessert freshly made with love. Whether it was something she cooked or baked, it was always delicious.
Mom also loved animals. She would often dog-sit for friends. And she always prayed for the animals; dogs, cats, horses, etc., especially the strays that she would see on the street. Mom had her very own sidekick, her chihuahua Coco, also known as the “favorite child” by her kids and grandkids, as we often joked with her. This is how the name “Grandma Coco” stuck with her. After Coco passed a few years back, Mom was blessed with a little stray kitty. We believe God brought Chloe to our Momma’s doorstep at just the right time.
Above all of Mom’s passions was her family. Birthdays and holidays were never forgotten, and one of her favorite things to do was gather around the table with family to celebrate. Mom’s face would radiate with joy when she saw her grandkids. This truly was the crown of glory that made her rejoice. Every morning she sent out texts to her loved ones just to tell them “Good morning” and that she loved them. That is something we all will miss. She also loved to drink her morning coffee while she looked outside at the birds and squirrels playing.
Mom had strong faith in the Lord. Her days began and ended with prayer, always praying for loved ones. If there was a need, there was a reason to pray. She loved attending church and meeting for weekly Bible Study where petitions for others were lifted up, and the Word of God refreshed her soul. As she would often say, “I needed to hear that.”
She is survived by her three children: Andrew Torres (Vanessa), Jodie Torres (Fabian), and Cassandra Ponce (Orlando); 10 grandchildren: Maya, Xavier, Darian, Alexis, Justin, Larry, Savannah (Keng), Jaylen, Kye (Tabi), and Kaylee; 8 great grandchildren: Arianna, Aaliyah, Dominic, Penelope, Silas, Landon, Easton, and Emory.
She is also survived by five sisters and two brothers; Mary Ann Quintanilla (Danny), Patricia Gomez, Wilma Vega (Chico), Liz Esquivel (Vince), Rudy Jr. Minjarez, Gracie Minjarez, Rene Minjarez; a special prima, Dolly Minjarez, who was like a sister to her, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her “Ama,” Paulita Mijares; her mother, Olivia G. Minjarez; stepfather, Rodolfo Sr. Minjarez; and her dog Coco.
We would like to express our gratitude to our family, friends, and The Seed Church for their love, support, and prayers; caregiver Brandy, Maria, and the rest of the HOSA staff, Home Preferred, and Noemi for their love and care of our Mom.
Momma, until we meet again…and see you face to face...
We love you!
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
“One thing I have desired of the LORD, That will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD All the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the LORD, And to inquire in His temple.”
Psalm 27:4
A private gathering of remembrance will be celebrated with close family and friends.
