Phyllis Torres

Phyllis Torres, age 96, was a long-standing resident of Rawlins, Wyoming, and lived independently in her house for 72 years until three years ago. She passed away September 17, 2021 at the Denver home of her daughter.

She was born in El Carmen, New Mexico to Filadelfio Sandoval and Josefita (Maes) Sandoval, and was their last surviving child.

After her schooling in Fort Steele, Wyoming, she married John Aguilar in Rawlins, where they made a home with their three children: Ted, Linda, and Dick. She later married Gilbert Torres.

Phyllis was an election judge, a life-long active member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, with a presence at daily mass, and the Altar Rosary Society. In her love for her parish community, she helped provide meals for families who lost loved ones. She also volunteered at St. Vincent de Paul.

She will be remembered for her smile and 30 some years of service at Rose’s Lariat up to her early 90s. Her love of family, staunch work ethic, and independent spirit, to the end of her life, are also part of her legacy.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents; her sons, Ted and Dick; her two grandchildren, Roy John and Teddi Lynn; all her siblings: Albert, Joe, Ruth, Lee, Margaret, and Ernest. She is survived by her daughter, Linda Martinez of Denver, eight grandchildren: Ray, Brandon, Tony, Valerie, Ava, Kelly, Randi, and Rick; nineteen great-grandchildren; and many nephews and nieces.

Rosary: October 1, 2021 at 1:00 pm, followed by the Funeral Mass, both at St. Joseph’s Church in Rawlins. A reception will follow in the church hall. Burial will be at the Rawlins Cemetery.