Pearl Torrez, 92, a resident of Fairview, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2026, after a sudden illness. Pearl was born on February 10, 1934, to Leonor and Isabel “Bessie” Romero in Ledoux, New Mexico. Pearl was preceded in death by her husband, Alfred Torrez Jr, her son, Robert and daughter-in-law Patsy Torrez, and her grandson, Leland Torrez.

Pearl is survived by her children, Kathryn (Richard) Samaniego, Fernando (Shirley) Torrez, Alfred (Andrea) Torrez, and Phillip (Denise) Torrez. She is survived by 11 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, and 9 great great grandchildren

Pearl moved to Espanola in 1956 where she was a homemaker and mother to a growing family. After the death of her husband, she raised her children as a widow. Pearl’s dedication and devotion in raising respectful children is a true reflection of her love and kindness. This set an example for her grandchildren who are now following the ideals that she instilled in her children.

After her children left the home, Pearl spent time babysitting her grandchildren. With her continuing love of family, Pearl joined the Foster Grandparent program which allowed her to be a teacher’s assistant at Fairview Elementary for nearly thirty years. Former students that saw Pearl out and about in town would remember “grandma” by saying hello and giving her a warm embrace. She was so happy when she saw or read success stories in the newspaper about her former students.

After retirement from the Foster Grandparent program, Pearl discovered a new and exciting activity. She began attending the City of Espanola Senior Center where she developed many friendships. Her favorite activities included playing bingo, warm food, bake sales, and occasional dances. Her strength and determination was amazing as she dealt with a back injury a few months prior to her death. She always said “I will go back to the Senior Center in June” By the grace of God, she was able to return and make it to one more dance.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to our Ambercare nurses Jamie and Yvette.

Public Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Santa Cruz, NM, followed by a Rosary at 9:45 a.m. Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Internment will take place at 2:00 p.m at the Santa Fe National Cemetery.

The family of Pearl Torrez has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley. 505-747-7477