Joe Henry Torres Sr.

Joe Torres was born November 26, 1947 in Visalia CA, to Pete and Eleanor Torres. During the summer of 1965, Joe found his better half, Rosie, as they picked fruit in the fields of Saratoga. After only knowing each other for one year, Joe and Rosie married and went on to have six children. They were happily married for 55 wonderful years!

Joe devoted his life to his family, God, his community and surrounding communities. Through the years, Joe helped start and was part of many youth sporting programs, church programs and youth betterment programs that were geared toward keeping kids off the streets and out of gangs (Streetwise Partners, Police Activity League, Wyldlife, Younglifes). He assembled many field trips for local youth, spent time visiting kids in juvenile hall, and set time aside to feed the homeless. Joe also dedicated several years to the students and families of Visalia Unified School District. As a campus supervisor, Joe formed bonds with students and found ways to help guide them and make them feel seen, safe, and understood. All while making sure they were doing what they were supposed to, like going to class! After retirement, Joe spent time attending many of his grand and great grandchildren’s events, tending to his garden, and tackling many woodworking projects for his family. He taught and led many people to the Lord and Joe went home to be with his Heavenly Father on August 3rd, 2025.

He is preceded in death by his wife Rosalinda Torres, parents Pete and Eleanor Torres, and sister Irene Berlanga.

He is survived by daughters Chrissy Garner, Michelle Cortez (Frank), Ophelia Felix (Alex), sons Joe Torres (Ashley), Jonathan Torres (Marianne), Joshua Torres (Mackenzie), fourteen grandchildren and ten great grandchildren.

In honor of Joe Torres, a Celebration of Life Ceremony will be held on Wednesday, August 20, 2025 at Radiant Church 515 E. Center Ave. beginning at 5:00pm