Rafael De La Torre

Rafael “Don Rafa” De La Torre October 25, 1938 – September 24, 2026 Rafael 

“Don Rafa” De La Torre passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 24, 2026, in Gorman, Texas, the town he called home. Rafael was born on October 25, 1938, in Castaños, Coahuila, Mexico, to Martin de la Torre and Maria Inocencio. He later made his home in Gorman, where he built a life centered around hard work, family, and community. He worked at Birdsong Peanut for nearly 40 years and made many lifelong friends, becoming lovingly known as “Don Rafa.” He was married to his beloved wife, Margarita “Mague” De La Torre, for 71 years. Their love story began when they were teenagers. The first time Rafael saw her, he told others he was going to marry her and he did. He always wanted Mague by his side and never missed an opportunity to bring her daisies, her favorite flower, for Valentine’s Day, her birthday, and their anniversary. Even as they grew older, they continued their tradition of decorating their home with Christmas lights together. 

Rafael was a hardworking man who took great pride in providing for his family. He enjoyed simple things: his morning coffee and biscuit, a cold Coke, keeping his yard clean, feeding his chickens, and riding his bicycle around town. Sundays were especially important to him. He would wake up early to barbecue and loved having everyone gather around the table. He passed down his love of cooking barbecue and beef heads to his children and grandchildren. He was also known for his generous heart. Every grandchild received a dollar from Grandpa, and no grandchild left his house without one. If someone stopped by, Rafael’s answer was often, “Go get Cokes.” He was proud of his family, especially his sons, and he was deeply patriotic and proud of the American flag. 

Rafael is survived by his children: Delia (Carlos) Ibarra, Hector (Elvira) De La Torre, Luis (Victoria) De La Torre, Cuauhtémoc (Martha) De La Torre, Edith (Enrique) De La Torre, Hilda De La Torre, Juan (Tammy) De La Torre, and Jackie De La Torre. He is also survived by his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, as well as extended family members and dear friends who will continue to carry his memory forward. 

Rafael was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 71 years, Margarita “Mague” De La Torre; their beloved daughter, Hilda Estella; and their grandson, Xavier. 

In his final days, Rafael was able to return home to Gorman, where he passed peacefully surrounded by the place and memories that meant so much to him. After 71 years of marriage and only 18 days apart, Rafael and Mague are together again. They will be laid to rest in their beloved Gorman, the place they called home together, and remain there for eternity. His stories, traditions, and the love he gave so freely will live on through the generations who knew him. 

Until we meet again, Don Rafa.