Elma Torres

It is with heavy hearts that we, the Martin Torres family, share our beloved and beautiful wife, mother and grandmother, Elma Torres, passed away on Sunday, January 14 at the age of 85 years. We are heartbroken, yet comforted in knowing she loved the Lord who welcomed her with open arms into His Heavenly Kingdom.

Elma is preceded in death by her parents, Venceslado and Floraida Tafoya, and brother, Francis O. Tafoya. She is survived by her husband, Martin P. Torres; children, Yvonne Torres, Cynthia Torres Ferrone (Ken), Annette Torres, Loretta Torres, and Martin G. Torres Jr.; grandchildren, Casey Martinez (Erica), Briana Torres, Chase Ferrone, Aleea Torres and Shawn Martinez; son-in-law, Raymond J. Martinez; siblings, Bernice Torres, Bonnie Mares, Luis Tafoya and Ben Tafoya (Yvette); as well as many nieces and nephews.

Elma was born in Ranchos de Taos in 1938. She attended Presbyterian school for her primary education and graduated from Taos High School in 1956. An extraordinarily influential woman, Elma was a trailblazer, career professional, and homemaker. She worked for the State of New Mexico as an executive administrative assistant and clerical staff supervisor for 32 years until her retirement. An enthusiastic philanthropist, Elma believed in “giving back” and making a positive impact in her community. She co-founded the Taos County Association for Retarded Citizens (ARC), known today as EnSueños Y Los Angelitos Development Center, serving children with special needs as well as adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Elma was affiliated with and volunteered for various organizations such as Beta Sigma Phi, The Taos Fiesta Council, Taos Band Boosters Club, Taos County Jr. Miss, Our Lady of Guadalupe Pastoral Council, the ARC and Taos County Ladies Home Extension.

Elma also had an affinity and love for the arts. She played the clarinet for the Taos High School Band and influenced her children to play musical instruments as well. She and Martin attended The Lawrence Welk Show, with kids in tow, in the 1970’s in Albuquerque, NM. They attended a variety of musical concerts, thereafter. Additionally, Elma enjoyed dancing, ceramics, and weaving.

Elma was an exceptional cook. She often hosted family and friends for meals especially during the holidays. She also loved spending time with her family on their ranch and often packed picnic lunches on weekends.

Elma loved the Lord. When she and her husband could no longer attend church services, they spent Sundays in prayer and reading scripture in conference calls with their adult children. This was “their family time” to strengthen their faith, provide support and earnestly pray.

Although Elma’s family misses her dearly, they look forward to reuniting with her in the Lord’s Heavenly Kingdom.

The Martin Torres family would like to extend their gratitude to relatives and friends for the outpouring of love and support they received while navigating this tremendous loss.

Rosary will be recited on Monday, January 22, 2024 at 6 PM at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Taos.  Funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at 12 noon at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church.  Interment will be held on Monday, February 05, 2024 at 12:30 PM at the Santa Fe National Cemetery.

Arrangements by Rivera Family Funeral Home. To share a memory, please visit our website at www.riverafuneralhome.com