With deep sadness and heartfelt love, the family of MARGARET APODACA TORRES, age 91, of Salem, announces her peaceful passing into eternal life on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at her daughter’s home in Albuquerque.

Born December 9, 1934, in Cuchillo, New Mexico, to Esther Martinez and Juan Apodaca, Margaret lived a long and beautiful life rooted in faith, family, and service. She worked for many years as a cook with the Hatch Public Schools, where her kindness, dedication, and warm presence touched countless students and staff. A devout member of the Roman Catholic Church, Margaret carried her faith with quiet strength and unwavering devotion.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband George L. Torres on June 26, 2012; two grandsons, Joseph A. Torres and Jordan E. Vallejos; infant sister, Lily Anna Apodaca and infant brother, Arismen Apodaca.

She is survived by her loving children: her daughter, Mary Vallejos (Edward) of Albuquerque; and four sons, Mayor G. Dennis Torres (Bertha) of Hatch, Bobby Torres (Joanne) of Huntington Beach, California, Michael Torres (Julia) of Colorado Springs, Colorado, and Gary Torres (Lavelle) of Albuquerque. Margaret is also survived by her sisters, Susan Polanco and Emerlinda Bierner of Truth or Consequences, and Stella Blea of Texas.

Her legacy continues through her 13 grandchildren, 9 great‑grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews who will forever cherish her memory.

Visitation for Ms. Torres will begin at 1 PM on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at Our Lord of Mercy Catholic Church, 117 Hartman Street in Hatch, where the Prayer Vigil is scheduled at 2 PM. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 2:30 PM in the same church. The Rite of Committal and Interment will follow at Garden of Memories Cemetery where she will be laid to rest alongside her beloved husband in the family plot.

Serving as casket bearers will be Dennis, Bobby, Michael, Gary, Joshua Torres, and Edward Vallejos. Honorary bearers include Michael, and Jordan X. Vallejos, Stephen, Nicholas and Jonathan Torres and Xavier Pezzano.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca’s Funeral Chapels of Las Cruces, 300 E. Boutz Road, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for “Veterans and Family Memorial Care.” For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com