Kathleen Mary Torres

Kathleen “Dolly” Torres, beloved wife, mother, aunt, sister, grandmother, great- grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on July 22, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada. She was 81.

Born in Riverside, California, Kathleen brought light, laughter, and endless love to everyone who knew her. Affectionately known as “Dolly,” she was the heart of her family — warm, wise, loyal, and unwavering in her love for her husband, Tom. The two shared a beautiful life together for nearly 48 years, building a home rooted in love, hard work, and lasting devotion.

Together, they faced life’s challenges with strength and grace, sharing a deep and lasting bond built on love, loyalty, and adventure. They lived fully — traveling the world, making memories, and walking side by side through nearly five decades of life. Their love was real, enduring, and full of joy. To those who truly knew them, there was never a doubt: they were partners in every sense of the word.

Dolly began her career as a teacher’s assistant and proudly became a first-generation college graduate — earning her associate degree in liberal arts from College of the Desert, followed by a bachelor’s degree from California State University, San Bernardino. Her academic focus was on bilingual and migrant education, driven by her passion for teaching and supporting children from underserved communities. Though she qualified for her teaching credentials, she chose instead to work alongside her husband in the family’s construction business, where she thrived as co-owner and partner. Later in life, she embraced her most treasured role — being a full-time mom, grandma, or “Gramsy,” the name some of her grandchildren lovingly called her.

A passionate believer in education, Dolly encouraged her children and grandchildren to pursue their degrees with determination. She always believed that education was the key that could unlock a better life — a sentiment she lived and passed down through generations.

She filled her home with warmth and joy and had an incredible gift for making people feel welcome, known, and loved. Dolly adored holidays, hosting lively gatherings, cooking feasts and hosting tamale making marathons that brought everyone to the table. She had a generous spirit, a sharp sense of humor, and a sparkle in her eye that lit up every room. She loved the casino, shopping, dancing, karaoke, and showering her family with thoughtful gifts. Dolly adored her family — her children, grandchildren, sisters, and her dozens of nieces and nephews. She never missed a birthday party, a baby shower or wedding, always showing up with a gift and a glowing smile. To know her was to feel unconditionally loved and endlessly entertained.

Dolly was always impeccably put together — her hair done just right, her nails manicured, her jewelry chosen with care. Whether she was going to a party, the grocery store, or just relaxing at home, she did it with elegance, flair, and confidence. Looking beautiful was her art, and she wore it with pride — not out of vanity, but because it reflected the joy she felt in being herself. And that version of herself made everyone else feel special too.

She also adored her miniature pinscher, Schatzi, who wasn’t just a pet — she was family. Schatzi was her loyal companion, her comfort through both joy and sorrow, and never left her side — even in her final days. Wherever Dolly was, Schatzi was close by, always curled up next to her, a constant presence full of love and devotion.

Dolly was preceded in death by her beloved son, Andrew Valencia. She is survived by her husband, Tom F. Torres; her children Randall Valencia (Lilli Ann), Kathleen “Lizzie” Trevathan (Lance), Steven Torres (Korin), and stepson Thomas Torres (Cynthia); grandchildren Ryan Valencia, Darin Valencia, Sarah Valencia (Kevin), Brandon Valencia, Morgan Fonseca (Adán), Dr. Beth Serrano (Miguel), Dylan Trevathan, Andrew Torres, Aaron Torres, and Tori Torres; and her great-grandchildren Hannah Fonseca, Aiden Fonseca, Beckham Fonseca, Luca Fonseca, Miles Serrano, Tyler Valencia, Lucy Valencia, Sally Valencia and Sophia Torres.

She leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and unforgettable memories that will live on in the hearts of those who knew her.

Services to honor and celebrate her life are as follows:

Viewing: Thursday, August 21, 2025 4:00–8:00 p.m. Thomas Miller Mortuary, Sierra Memorial Chapel 4933 La Sierra Ave, Riverside, CA

Funeral Mass: Friday, August 22, 2025 11:00 a.m. St. Catherine of Alexandria Catholic Church 3680 Arlington Ave, Riverside, CA

Celebration of Life Reception: Friday, August 22, 2025 12:00–5:00 p.m. Riverside Elks Lodge 6166 Brockton Ave, Riverside, CA

Serving as Pallbearers:

Steven Torres, Randall Valencia, Ryan Valencia, Darin Valencia, Lance Trevathan, Dylan Trevathan, Adán Fonseca, Miguel Serrano

Message from the Family

Many have asked how they can help during this difficult time, and your love and support truly mean the world to us. For those who wish to offer support beyond flowers, donations to assist with memorial arrangements are deeply appreciated. Please reach out to Randy, Kathleen (Lizzie), or Steven for electronic giving options. Contributions may also be made at the service. If you would prefer to bring food, your generosity is equally welcome and will help us care for family and loved ones gathering in remembrance.