I will never forget the countless times you told me you were always on my shoulder watching me! I was so gullible! I mean come on you made me thisbway Grandpa to this day I'm still just as gullible. If not, I'd say I'm even more gullible  to this day!! I remember you calling my mother (your only daughter everyday) asking  what I was doing and she would tell you ! Of course I didn't know she was telling you and you would just repeat to me on the phone as qe would talk and tell me every little detail of what I would be doing that specific minute!! I truly believed you were on my shoulder watching! Specifically  my right shoulder! I remember going into my closet  because mom told me to hang my clothes on the hanger! My hair got caught and tangled all in the hangers attached to the bar you hang your clothes on! Of course i was probably about 4 and I remember yellingn"Mom, come help!!! GRANDPA  AND INARE TANGLED  IN THE HANGERS  AND WE'RE  STUCK IN  THE CLOSET!! . GREAT MEMORIES AND I HOPE AND PRAY TO GOS YOU HAVE FOUND PEACE AND HEAVEN IS JJST AS BEAUTOFUL AS YOU AND THE WAY YOU ALWAYS  KEPT YOUR HOUSE AND YARD! NO MORE YARD WORK FOR YOU NOW! JUST TIME TO RELAX AND ENJOYBTHE SCENERY! LOVE YOU  AND MISS YOU! I WILL  FOREVER  WEAR YOUR MEDALLION  ON THAT GOLD CHAIN UNTIL THE DAYNI DIE AND IT IS PASSED ON TO YOUR GREATBGRAND DAUGHTER AND HER CHILDREN!! MISS YOU. 
#THELITTLESMOMENTSMEANEVERYTHING
#TOMORROWSNEVERPROMISED
#R.I.P 


A handful of grandkids and great-grandkids

I have known John Torres my whole life, not only as a family member, but as a friend and mentor. He would always take time to talk to me and ask what was going on in my life. He listened as I told him and he would try to explain how the world was and that people were all different and we should try to understand what makes them the way they are. He said "This world will wreck you, if you let it. Don't let it." He sent me a prayer card his father, my grandpa Mauro, had given him. Grandpa Mauro felt he would need the prayer to help him through life. Uncle John believed I would need it too. Of course, he was right. Lol He also gave me a beautiful Alvarez guitar. I don't think I will be as good at playing it as he was, but I will keep trying. He was one of the most intelligent, caring people I know. He really liked people and never judged anyone. The world is a sadder place without him and he will always be in my heart. He was my "Uncle."   


Center: Galdina Avila Melendez Mireles 
Left to right: Great-granddaughters : Katy and Moira, Granddaughters: Anita and Veronica,  Daughter: Virginia Mireles Vega 

Left to Right:  Polly, Virginia, Efren, Aunt Josephine, Uncle Carlos, Cousin Picho, Uncle John Torres

Our Beloved Uncle John:  Sadly, we are unable to say goodbye to you in person.  I have chosen to write a small tribute to the extraordinary life you have lived.  Your kindness and generosity was felt by all your nieces and nephews, and I recall always being welcomed to your home with open arms.  I experienced a deep sadness when I learned of your passing.    My Mother, Galdina (aka. Goldie) always held each of her brothers in such high esteem, and you are no exception.  Your family was such important part of your life, and I was fortunate to be one of your family.  I remember all of mother’s relatives coming from Iowa and spending the summer with us in Brownsville, Texas.  You loved our beloved mother, Galdina, as though she were your own mother.   From my childhood, I have a precious memory that I felt tremendous privilege that I was the only one that you would allow to touch your hair! You were meticulous in caring for your hair.  Uncle John, your talents were many including your ability to sing in both Spanish and English, play guitar, and play harmonica.  My kids loved going to see your beautiful home with a tropical garden and your big aviary in the back yard.  You were a true animal lover and had Gypsy, your German Shepard  guard dog for a long time. The family reunions you hosted in your Dallas home were awesome! Our birthday parties for Goldie and Cindy in South Padre Island were unforgettable. We were so privileged to have you at every event!  You were fortunate to have Polly as well as your children who lovingly cared for you up to the end of your life.  Please forgive us for not attending your funeral.  I would give anything to be at an event which celebrated your life, just as you were for me and my family. I know you will understand. Give Goldie and our angels in Heaven a big hug. To be sure, we will all join you, and we can have a spectacular celebration. I love you, and I miss you, my beloved Uncle John Torres, -Virginia Mireles Vega

My maiden name was Rita Melendez, daughter of Carlos and Josephine Melendez. When I was a little girl, our family traveled to Texas almost every summer. On our way to Brownsville, we’d stop at Uncle John’s and visit a day or two then head to Brownsville to visit Grandpa Torres and Aunt Galdina.  We always felt welcome at Unce John’s and Aunt Evelyn’s.  The house where they  lived back then was a different house and it was an adventure where we would sleep, on the floor I think. But we didn’t mind because we were too busy playing , eating too much Mexican food, and visiting. 

I didn’t realize Uncle John’s middle name was Avila. That was also my dad’s middle name. 

I have many more I could share, but it would take way too long to share all the wonderful memories I have.  


I'll never forget the family reunion Uncle John held in his home in Dallas, Tex. It was the best reunion I'd ever been to, & Uncle John was at his best, dancing & kidding around & he had that infectious laugh. He was a very good man. His family came first, always. God be with you Uncle John, & your family during these difficult times, Amen.


“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die”
                                                        Thomas Campbell (1800)


John Torres and his family grew up with my family.  John and my dad were friends for as long as I can remember.  As a matter of fact, the Torres’ came over to stay with my two older sisters when our mom went to the hospital to deliver me in 1960.  John was always ready to help whenever he was needed.  I will remember forever his amazing smile and infectious laugh!
             
                                                       Respectfully Submitted,
                                                   
                                                                                 Dr. Joan Carver-Tucker
      

One of my fondest memories with my dad was when he took me to a police auction so I could buy a bicycle to use on my paper route. I saw a bike that I liked so I bid on it and had the winning bid. Then they brought out a Schwinn Stingray Deluxe 3 speed. I really wanted it so I asked if I could bid on it and he said "Yes". I bid on it but I got outbid. My dad had been behind me and he had kept bidding until he won the Schwinn. I was so surprised when they brought out both bikes. The Schwinn was like new. There are many more great memories but that has to be one of my favorites. I'm going to miss him so much. Not only was he my dad he was my neighbor.

I am so sorry for the loss of Uncle John.  He was one of a kind.  Uncle John was very meticulous with the body work he did and his business, and equally so with his home as well as his appearance.  We shared many stories and beliefs, and at times we did not agree, we always shared a love for one another.  I'll miss laughing with him and times when he would play the guitar and sing.  I'll never forget his smile and those ornery eyes!  God bless you Uncle John and may you Rest In Peace with God.  Love you

My prayers, thoughts and love are with you all as you go through the next few days.  May God be with you and give you peace and comfort. You have many wonderful memories and those will always be in your hearts. Sending you all love and prayers. God bless you all. Lois

OBITUARY

John Avila Torres

26 December, 1921 – 12 May, 2020

Grove Hill Funeral Home & Memorial Park

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