Obituary
Remembering Edwing Roy Torrealba
Anyone who had the pleasure of meeting Edwing Roy Torrealba will remember him as dynamic,
proactive, and full of energy. The choices he made in life were courageous and adventurous.
At age 19, Roy left Venezuela to study in the United States. The whole family was happy for his
new opportunities, but the separation was difficult. Despite the distance, he always prioritized
family. Roy always made a conscious effort to be present in both the celebratory and difficult
moments. He made every effort to foster a distinct relationship with each family member, and
always looked out for his mother, siblings, and their children from afar.
Roy’s family all hold a deep respect and admiration for him. Despite his sternness and
stubbornness at times, he loved to dance more than anything. The joy he felt while dancing lit
up a room. Roy’s life was accompanied by much music – ballads, salsa, and merengue moved
him deeply.
Despite having left so young, Roy held a deep love for his roots, for his country. He was proud
to be married in Venezuela to the mother of his children, Michelle. When his girls were born, he
brought Alisha and Amber to Venezuela at various times to introduce them to their heritage.
Roy held a deep love and pride for his daughters. He deeply admired Alisha’s singing voice and
the love they both shared for nature. Amber was his little treasure and he equally admired her
dedication and passion for extreme sports since she was a child. They made his heart overflow
with joy and pride. Despite the distance and the difference in culture, Roy always wanted for his
family in Venezuela to know his American daughters.
His passion for travel and experience brought Roy many places. He worked all over the United
States, helping and becoming friends with many different types of people. All appreciated his
quirky nature.
Roy maintained a deep friendship with and love for his ex-wife Michelle, and his previous
partner, Helen. Despite their differences, both women remained a big part of his life. Michelle
celebrated holidays with Roy and their daughters, and he remained close with her side of the
family. Helen cared for Roy through his most difficult moments at the end of his life, making him
his favorite foods and playing his favorite music. She, Roy’s close friend Eddie, and his neighbor
Gloria, all loved and comforted him in his final moments.
That is what it means to be part of Roy’s beautiful family; he held appreciation for diversity,
navigated the problems, the losses and pains with those he loved. He held a deep love and was
actively present with those who were living, and always remembered and honored those who
went before.
Roy’s loss leaves a deep void and pain, but we know he is happy and at peace with his parents,
his other family members, and his late wife Luz. He will forever be loved and respected, just as
he was in life. Roy will always live on in our hearts.
Godfather Rest In Peace, You were a great human being. Misunderstood on many occasions. But I’m sure you did the best you could with what you had. Fly high, meet God and your loved ones.
I will always remember you.
I will miss you forever.