Elisama Estefanita aka Zelma Torres
10.22.26
Elisama Estefanita “Zelma” Torres, age 99 passed away peacefully at her home on October 22, 2026, surrounded by love.
Zelma was born on February 25, 1927, in Weston, Colorado, to Belarmino and Dolores Garcia. She grew up in Parras, Colorado, where she attended local school and began building the foundation of a life centered on faith, family, hard work and love.
She married her beloved husband, Antonio De Jesus Torres in December of 1945, and together they raised a large and loving family of 16 children. Being a mother was one of Zelma’s greatest joys and proudest accomplishments. She devoted her life to care for her children, instilling in them the values of kindness, perseverance, generosity, and importance of family.
Throughout her life, Zelma was known for her strong work ethic and determination. She worked as a custodian at Weston Elementary School, Bar -N-I Ranch, Picket Wire Lodge, and Monument Lake before continuing her education and earning her GED. She later attended Trinidad State Junior College, where she obtained her cosmetology license. Her son Pete built a beauty salon at his home for her, where she proudly served members of her community.
Zelma had a passion for life’s simple pleasures. She enjoyed cooking, baking, camping, traveling, gambling, crafting, and spending time outdoors. She was always up for an adventure and found happiness in making memories with those she loved.
Her kitchen was the heart of her home, and everyone was always welcome. She was especially known for her delicious homemade tortillas, pancakes, and freshly baked bread. More than the food itself, it was the love she poured into every meal and the warmth she shared with everyone who gathered around her table that made those moments unforgettable.
Zelma was a woman of unwavering faith and devotion to her family. She was loving, selfless, compassionate, hardworking, and kind. Her generosity knew no bounds, and she had a special way of making everyone feel welcomed, cared for and loved.
She will be remembered for her strength, her adventurous spirit, her giving heart, and the countless memories she created with her family. Her legacy will live on the generations she helped raise and the love she so freely gave.
Zelma was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Antonio De Jesus Torres; her parents Belarmino and Dolores Garcia; her newborn boys, Abe Torres, Paul Torres, and Baby Boy Torres; children, Richard Torres, Odelia Torres, Marietta Rodriguez, Anthony Torres and Leonard Torres; siblings, Pete Garcia, Tommy Martinez, Helen Esquibel
Zelma is survived by her loving children, Pete Torres, Elsie (Salvador) Oritz, Sam (Kathy) Torres, Diane Ortiz, Brenda (Felix) Baca, Reuben (Liz) Torres, Edward (Brenda) Torres, John (Tara) Torres; siblings, Stella Torres, Ernest (Lorraine) Vallejos, Henrietta (Jim) Howell and also 27 grandkids, 61 great grandkids, 19 great, great grandkids and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends.
Active Pallbearers: John Torres, Elijah Torres, David Ortiz, Leonard Torres, Dylan Baca, Hector Ortiz, Joshua Rodrguez and Blaze Torres
Honorary Pallbearers: Eliana Ortiz-Baca, Maliya Torres, Diamond Tafoya, Gracie Lynn-Zelma Stanley, Ellexcia Torres, Zoee Cappellucci, and Aaliya Ortiz
Eulogy: Joylynn Stanley
Zelma’s love was the foundation of her family, her kitchen was a gathering place for generations, and her memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Viewing: Comi Funeral Home
Wednesday November 4, 2026
Family Viewing: 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Public Viewing: 3:00 p.m. -6:00 p.m.
Celebration of Life Service: Comi Funeral Home
Thursday November 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
Interment: Immediately following the Celebration of Life
Weston Cemetery
A Special Thank You
The family of Zelma Torres would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Mt. Rose Health Center for loving and compassionate care provided to their mother. Your kindness, dedication, and support during her final days will always be remembered and deeply appreciated.