Rosa Perez Torres, age 90, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, in Waco, Texas.

She was born on October 14, 1935, in Acatlipa, a beautiful and tradition-rich town in Temixco, Morelos, Mexico, to Luis Perez and Angelina Navarro Perez. In 1958, Rosa moved to McAllen, Texas, where she began a remarkable journey defined by determination, strength, and an unwavering devotion to her family. In 1972, she relocated to Waco, Texas—a city she proudly called home for more than 50 years.

A woman of deep faith, Rosa became a devoted parishioner at St. Francis on the Brazos Catholic Church. She was actively involved in the Las Guadalupanas, a women’s organization dedicated to faith, service, and charity within the Mexican-American Catholic community. Rosa ensured that her children were raised with a strong foundation in their Catholic faith, a legacy that continues through her family.

During those early years in Waco, she formed a special bond with Father Jose Antonio Martorell or “Father Joe,” whom she called “her angel.” His steadfast presence in her family’s life—visiting every Tuesday evening for many years—was a source of comfort. Rosa, in turn, made sure he was always welcomed with his favorite sandwich. He never missed a Tuesday night visit with the family from the early 1970’s until he retired

Rosa was the proud mother of thirteen children, and her life was a testament to resilience, sacrifice, and unconditional love. She often worked multiple jobs to provide for her family, never wavering in her commitment to their well-being. As her children grew older, her love extended just as deeply to her grandchildren, whom she cared for with the same tenderness and devotion. She was always present with a simple but powerful question: “How can I help?”

Known for her warmth and hospitality, Rosa was also an exceptional cook. Her family will forever cherish her famous mole, rice, and beans, as well as the joy she brought to every gathering. Each Christmas, she lovingly displayed a large nativity scene, reflecting her enduring faith and traditions.

Rosa found happiness in life’s simple pleasures—caring for her plants, playing the slots, and spending time with her beloved dalmatians, Snickers and Duke. Her love for Duke was especially profound, as she believed he once saved her life by jumping up behind her, protecting her from a tragic fall. In another instance of his loyalty, he protected her from a burglar who was hiding beneath her home.

Above all, Rosa will be remembered for her strength, her faith, her generous heart, and the deep love she carried for her family. Her legacy lives on in the lives she shaped, the faith she instilled, and the many memories she leaves behind.

A strong and determined mother of thirteen children, Robert Torres, Luis Torres and wife Amanda, Noelia Reyes and husband Rick, Julieta Gonzales and husband Marshall, Nelda Lloyd and husband Rusty, Noel Torres and wife Irene, Rosalba Rios and husband Alfredo, Noemi T. Diaz, Nicolas Torres, Jr., Jorge Torres and wife Connie, and Noe Torres and wife Gloria. Rosa was “Abuela” to many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by two daughters, Nancy Unger and Marie Hammond; and a much beloved son-in-law, Enrique M. Diaz, Sr.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at the Waco Memorial Funeral Home, where a rosary will be recited at 6:00 p.m. Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, June 26, 2026 at St. Francis on the Brazos Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Waco Memorial Park Cemetery.