Antonio Torrez

Celebrating the Life of Antonio "Tony" Torrez May 10, 1949 — May 4, 2026 Antonio "Tony" Torrez, a man who truly never met a stranger and filled every room with music and laughter, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026—just six days shy of his 77th birthday. A lifelong resident of Roswell, Tony left behind a legacy of faith, family, and a rhythm that will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A Life of Service and Devotion Born on May 10, 1949, in Dexter, New Mexico, to Candido and Eulalia Torres, Tony grew up with a deep appreciation for his roots. He graduated from Hagerman High School in 1968 before answering the call to serve his country. In 1969, Tony joined the U.S. Army, serving overseas in Germany with honor and pride. Upon returning home, Tony built a life centered on love. He was married to Ysabel Torrez from February 5, 1972, until her passing on February 7, 1989. In a beautiful second chapter of life, he found his soulmate, Consuelo Mendiola Torrez, and the two were wed on July 7, 1990. Their union was a testament to enduring partnership and joy. Tony was perhaps best known for the guitar in his hands and the song in his heart. An avid musician, he was a pillar of the St. Peter’s Catholic Church choir, where his voice served as a bridge between the congregation and the divine. Beyond his music, Tony was the undisputed king of the "Tony joke." He was legendary for telling jokes that were objectively bad, yet his delivery and spirit made them undeniably funny. He was also well-known for his famous advice to everyone he loved: he wanted to make sure we all had our "Ducks in a row." Whether he was at church, buying his lottery scratchers, the casino in Ruidoso, or cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs, Tony’s wisdom and humor left a mark on everyone he met. Family Legacy Tony’s greatest pride was his expansive, loving family. He is survived by his beloved children: -Roberta Aragon of Roswell, NM -Ricky Torrez and wife Connie of San Diego, CA -Lionel Torrez and wife Audrey of Gilbert, AZ -Willie Anadazola and wife Becky of Clovis, NM -Pamela Garcia (bonus daughter) and husband Gabe of Roswell, NM He is also survived by his sisters and brothers-in-law: -Grace Mendiola -Becky Bright -Theresa Mendiola -Margie Luevano -Alice Larranaga and husband George Danny Mendiola Joe Mendiola and wife Doreen Manuel Otero and wife Lola. His spirit lives on through 27 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Tony was preceded in death by his parents, Candido and Eulalia, his in-laws Joe and Helen Mendiola; his brothers, Valois and Leroy; brothers-in-law, Lupe Luevano and Marvin Bright; sister-in-law, Tammy Mendiola; son-in-law, Michael Aragon; and grandson, Anthony Aragon. The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to Tilly Salas, and Lorenzo and Samantha Mendiola for their constant and loving care. We are also deeply grateful to the team at Gentiva Hospice, as well as Pamela Garcia, Tia Vialpando, Jeneva Orpineda, and Liz Fuentes and Theresa Mendiola for their kindness and support. "He has fought the good fight, he has finished the race, he has kept the faith." Tony Torrez’s song has not ended; it has simply moved to a grander stage. He will be remembered for his warmth, his "bad" jokes, and his steady reminder to keep our ducks in a row.

Antonio Torrez

May 10, 1949 - May 4, 2026