Raul Torres Cruz

Raul Torres Cruz, 81, also known as “Primo”, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, June 24, 2024.

Raul was born in Tamaulipas, Mexico, on March 21, 1943, to Presiliano Torres and Pilar Cruz. As a child, he grew up in “La Barranca” just across the border in Mexico before moving to San Benito, TX, with his mother and siblings. He later moved to Lamesa, TX, working there until he retired in 2024 from Wes-Tex Co-Op Gin after more than 60+ years in the cotton gin industry.

A veteran ginner, Raul began his career as a teenager and was a true professional in cotton production and harvesting. He traveled all over Texas following the cotton seasons before settling in West Texas and creating a home there. He was extremely passionate about his job, and his work ethic was unmatched. Always prioritizing physical embraces over formal handshakes, Raul was admired by all those he worked with, and his charismatic smile and optimistic attitude left a lasting impression with anyone who was lucky enough to have known him. As a father, Raul confidently embraced a life filled with strong family bonds and a resilient sense of positivity. He loved unconditionally and was a guiding light to every single member of his family. Never judgmental and always with a loving hand, as was his nature, Raul was infinitely generous with life advice and encouragement. His absence leaves a substantial void that will be deeply felt by his family and friends. He was truly a beautiful soul that will be greatly missed.

 Raul is survived by his loving children: San Juanita (Michael) Cuellar; Raul (Teresa) Torres; Monica (Adan) Martinez; Enrique F. (Veronica) Torres; Eric (Erica) Torres; Denise Torres (Justin Teran); Ashley Torres (Chris Arzate); and Robert (Neveah) Torres. Grandchildren: Harley D. (Justin) Rodriguez; Zachary Martinez (Naomi Berumen); Shafia M. (Randy) Bowker; Sturgis Zavala; Gilda Torres; Kathryn Torres; Vanessa Torres; Eric Torres Jr; Osvaldo Torres; Enrique Torres Jr; Ezequiel Torres; Evelynn Torres. Great-grandchildren: Nathaniel Luke Rodriguez, Aaliyah Mai Zavala, and Kaylani Sue Torres.

 The family invites relatives and friends to join in honoring Raul's life at the Buck Ashcraft Funeral Home in San Benito, TX. Visitation will be held on Friday, June 28, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with a memorial service at 7:00 PM. A church service will take place on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at 10:00 AM at St. Theresa Catholic Church, followed by the burial at 11:00 AM at Mont Meta Memorial Park.