Address
Locke on 4th
1519 W 4th St.
Waterloo, IA 50702
Funeral Service
August 14, 2026
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Locke on 4th
1519 West 4th St., Waterloo, IA
Visitation
August 14, 2026
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Locke on 4th
1519 West 4th St., Waterloo, IA
Memorial Donations
- May be directed to the family
Daissy Yolanda Torres Tillapaugh, 80, of Urbandale, and formerly of Waterloo, died Monday, August 10, 2026, while at patient at MercyOne Des Moines. She was born on February 21, 1946, in Monto, Honduras, the daughter of Alvaro Chirinos and Juliana Torres. Daissy graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with a bachelor’s degree in education and worked as a teacher for the Des Moines Public Schools. She married Stephen James Tillapaugh on June 29, 1968, and the couple was blessed with two children.
Daissy and Stephen met while Stephen was teaching at a college in Honduras. He was a member of the Peace Corps and teaching English, and she was a student. Stephen was mesmerized by Daissy, but she didn’t want anything to do with him for some time. Once they did begin dating, Daissy’s mother, Juliana, served as a chaperone. Daissy and Stephen were married in Honduras, and she was naturalized as a United States citizen in 1977.
Daissy loved gardening and her flowers were her pride and joy. She loved nature and enjoyed frequent visits to Seattle and the west coast. Since Stephen didn’t fly, their trips encompassed finding the scenic routes by car.
Daissy is survived by her husband, Stephen, of Urbandale; her children, Susan McFarland of Waterloo and James Tillapaugh of Seattle, WA; 3 grandchildren, Jordan Witbracht of Urbandale, Sydney (Shawn) Boehmer of Waterloo, and Jonah McFarland of Waterloo; 2 great-grandchildren, Greyson Witbracht and Beckett Boehmer; and many other family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and sisters Costa Avila and Eva Torres.
Funeral services for Daissy will be Friday, August 14, 2026, at 11:00 am, at Locke on 4th St., 1519 W 4th St., Waterloo, with burial to follow at Garden of Memories Cemetery. Visitation will be an hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions should be directed to the family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.lockefuneralservices.com.
Mary and I were so sad to hear of your mom’s passing. She was a wonderful lady and always with a big smile. You have all of you in our thoughts and prayers.❤️
Dear Steve and family, I am so saddened and shocked to hear of Daissy’s passing. Daissy took me under her wing as a new teacher and never let me go! She was such a generous and hospitable friend. She encouraged me in so many ways and I wanted to be able to teach like her, garden like her and love with fierce loyalty as she did. There will forever be a gaping hole in my heart.
Our deepest condolences to the entire family during this difficult time. We are deeply saddened by the loss of Tía Daissy. May the beautiful memories we shared with her bring comfort and strength to everyone who loved her.
With love and sympathy,
Omar Avila and family ❤️
My deepest condolences to my Tio Steve, to my cousin Susie and James, and the entire family. We are saddened by the passing of Tia Diassy. We will remember her as the most brightest and kindest person❤️ Sending love and prayers.
-Mirna Avila
I’m so sorry to hear of Daisy’s passing. She was a bright light as a Spanish teacher and sub in our district.
My deepest sympathy for your loss. Daissy was such a beautiful, kind soul. I had the pleasure of meeting her and working with her at the West Des Moines Community School District. She always had a smile on her face and such incredible enthusiastic energy! She will be missed 🙏
I met Daissy in 2015 when I started teaching Spanish in West Des Moines Community Schools. Daissy had a reputation for being an amazing teacher and had a sweet, gentle disposition. She mentored me and wrapped her arms around anyone who needed a little bit of kindness. She taught me that no matter how challenging teaching can be, kindness is the ultimate reason for making a difference in the life of a child. I’m grateful for the lessons and kindness Daissy shared with me. Please accept my sincere condolences.
I knew Señora Tillapaugh during my time as a student at Westridge Elementary in the 2010s. She always started Spanish Class with a smile on her face and so much energy. I remember she would say “hola hola coca cola” as soon as she walked in the classroom, and it made every student giggle. I have family working at West Des Moines schools and was saddened to hear of her passing, may she rest peacefully.
Daissy was such a special light for so many. I loved teaching with her. We shared a mutual respect and passion for teaching Spanish. She was always so supportive of me. After she retired, I remember how she would tell me that she loved my lessons and teaching when she became my main substitute. That meant a lot coming from such a dedicated, outstanding educator. Teaching is not always easy and Daissy always helped me through. It was so fun when she hosted the Spanish teachers at her house. Daissy was a team player. I always looked forward to chatting with her about life and education. Daissy was a role model and friend who made a difference in this world. I’m so blessed that I got to know her.
I will be thinking of the family and hope all the messages of how special Daissy was help you through. 🩷
I’m so sorry to hear of Daissy’s passing. I taught with her at Westridge Elementary. She was part of our Related Arts team. Daissy was so dedicated and positive. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
We were so shocked to hear of Daissy’s passing!! She was such a fun and energetic person!!! I always enjoyed when we subbed together!! It was great fun to visit with both of you when we would walk at the mall!!! It was also fun to visit about our sons who both live in Seattle!! She is in a more wonderful place but will sure be missed here on earth!!! Wishing peace and blessings to all of her family!!!
How sad! We saw you both such a short time ago. I know you will remember her for all the good times you have had together.
We will be thinking of you and your children. Peace!