On Wednesday, April 29, 2026, Abel Y. Torres, a beloved brother, uncle, and friend, passed away at the age of 63. He was born on May 16, 1962, in Houston, Texas, where he was raised and where his life became a powerful testament to faith, perseverance, and service to others. Abel was truly a miracle who fought the good fight. Throughout his life, he overcame tremendous health challenges, including COVID, cancer, intestinal surgery, and open-heart surgery. Through every trial, he lived each day as if it were his last, faithfully, courageously, and with gratitude. His strength was reflected in his lifelong commitment to serving others, despite his health challenges. Family was at the heart of Abel’s life and shaped the servant leader he became. When his father, Daniel L. Torres, passed away at the age of 54 following an illness, Abel committed himself to supporting his mother, Mary Y. Torres, by helping her raise his two younger sisters, Maryesther and Ruth. 

He was always present for his family and gave with a generous heart, ensuring that those around him had opportunities to grow, learn, and build a better future. Abel attended Texas Southern University but stepped away from school to work and help support his family. Although he was unable to complete his college education, he remained deeply committed to creating educational opportunities for others. This passion led him to volunteer with organizations such as the Rotary Club of Harrisburg and Fiestas Patrias, both of which award college scholarships to deserving students. He also helped organize annual Torres Family Reunion events to raise scholarship funds for family members pursuing higher education. Abel believed that leadership meant opening doors for others, and his generosity and encouragement will be felt for generations to come. 

A committed public servant, Abel devoted his life to strengthening his community through meaningful work. He served with the YWCA, a nonprofit organization, for 16 years before continuing his service with the City of Houston for more than 25 years. In recognition of his dedication, Abel retired from the City of Houston in June 2024 and was honored with a proclamation declaring “Abel Torres Day,” signed by Houston Mayor John Whitmire on June 21, 2024. Even in retirement, Abel continued to live out his calling as a servant leader. He dedicated his time to serving the Lord as a leader at Iglesia Bautista de Houston. He served as Secretary for Fiestas Patrias, where he helped relaunch the annual Fiestas Patrias Parade in 2025. He also served as President Elect for Rotary, where he had been a devoted member for more than 35 years. Everywhere Abel served, he led with purpose, compassion, and a sincere desire to help others succeed. Although he is no longer with us, his legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched, the opportunities he created, and the joy he brought to so many. 

Abel will be forever loved and remembered. He is survived by his siblings: JoAnn Ozuniga and her husband, George; David Torres and his wife, Sabrena; Maryesther Bustamante and her husband, Carlo; and Ruth Mendez and her husband, Reggie. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews: Johnny J. Arguijo, Michael A. Arguijo, Sarah O. Walters and her husband, Bryan; Isaiah Ozuniga and his wife, Samantha; Augustine Ozuniga and his wife, Kimberly; Steve Torres and his wife, Jennifer; Aaron Prieto and his wife, Amanda; Christine Benoit and her husband, Markus; Matthew Torres; Joshua Bustamante; Reggie Mendez Jr.; and Lina Mendez. He will also be lovingly remembered by his numerous great nieces and great nephews, extended family, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Daniel L. Torres; his mother, Mary Y. Torres; his sister, Selvia Rivera; and his nephews and nieces: David Torres Jr., Abel J. Arguijo, Daniel E. Arguijo, Jessica Telles, and Cindy Lynn Telles.