Ms. Zaida I. Torres

Zaida Ivette Torres, affectionately known as "Zee," departed this life on April 26, 2023. She was born on July 6, 1957, in Yauco, Puerto Rico.  Zaida has been a resident in Kansas City, Missouri since 1993 after her military service. 

Zaida was a devoted mother to her son, Raenaldo David Torres (Amy) of Kansas City, Missouri, and doting grandmother to three grandchildren: Jer’Samuel Rashad “Jay” Torres of Warner Robins, Georgia, and Amiyah and Lilly Torres of Kansas City, Missouri. One great granddaughter Ja’Kiyah Torres of Warner Robins, Georgia. She leaves behind three brothers, Luis Torres Jr (Penny) of Buffalo, New York, Samuel Torres of Kansas City, and Raul Torres Sr (Jeanette “Geanie”) of Buffalo, New York, and one sister, Jeanette Woods (Pastor JJ Woods Jr) of Kansas City, Missouri. Brother of Love Samuel Brown of Warner Robins, Georgia. She also leaves behind a host of loving nieces, great nieces, nephews, great nephews in New York and Kansas City, MO, many cousins, aunts and uncles, dear close friends Dave, Tracy, Pedro and many more friends.

Zaida was a proud patriot who served her country for 10 years as an active duty Sergeant in the United States Army. She protected and served our country with distinction, and her commitment to her duty was admired by her colleagues.

Zaida was also known for her vivacious and outgoing personality. She was the life of the party and always had a way of bringing joy and laughter to those around her. Her infectious smile and kind heart will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Zaida graduated from Father Baker High School in Buffalo, New York, in 1975, and during her high school years, she worked multiple jobs. After graduating, she continued working until she decided to join the United States Army.

Zaida united with Bethel Missionary Baptist Church and was baptized in 1994. She served faithfully for many years as a servant, choir member, and was very active in Bible Study, Sunday School, and all activities until her health began to fail her.

Zaida was preceded in death by her parents, Luis E. Torres Sr., and Maria (née) Irizarri Torres of Yauco, Puerto Rico, as well as three brothers and one sister-in-law, Daniel Torres (Elaine), Frankie Torres, and Adam Torres.

Zaida will always be remembered for her love of life, her dedication to her country, and her ability to light up any room she entered. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2023, 12pm at Bethel Baptist Church 4300 E. 18th Street KCMO 64127. Interment Leavenworth National Cemetery, LVNKS. Visitation will be from 10am-12pm. Service conducted by Lawrence A. Jones & Sons Funeral Chapel. Condolences may be shared on our website.

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