Juanita Flores

Juanita (also known as "Juana" or "Jane") Flores age 77, passed away on December 11, 2020. She was the 5th out of eleven children. She was born in Phoenix, AZ on October 10, 1943 to Enrique and Elisa Tover. Two brothers and two sisters precede her in death. As a child growing up in a large family of farmworkers, motivated Jane to become self-sufficient and hard working. She would say, "My Dad always told us not to wait around expecting others to do anything for you - you need to get up and do it yourself!" Jane became an accomplished seamstress and cook, making her own school clothes and preparing homemade meals for the family. She could out-work and outlast any adult farmworker. She was raised in El Mirage, AZ and attended Dysart Elementary School. One of her schoolmates was Baldemar Huerta, who, years later would become the Tejano Country Singer, Freddy Fender. in 1963, Juana married Cruz Flores. Her life was forever changed, as they ventured on as migratory farmworkers from Arizona to Washington and other states in between. Eventually, Juana and Cruz settled down in El Mirage, AZ and raised their large family. Juana was the solid foundation for the family; she made sure that every special occasion was celebrated with music, dancing, food, family and lots of fun and excitement. Watching Juana and Cruz dance to Tejano Music and to Oldies literally took you "back to the day" in time - it was so special. Holidays were always a highlight for the family. No one ever needed to feel alone or left out because Juana made everyone welcome. She was willing to help anyone who needed help. If you felt empty inside, Juana would fill you up with her warm welcome, hot coffee, delicious homemade tortillas, beans and green chili. As the years went by and Juana and Cruz's family grew in number, they also grew in love. Many friends and even strangers would comment to them on how deeply loved and cherished Juana & Cruz were by their children and family. Juana is survived by husband Cruz; Seven children: Irene, Carmen, Connie, Delia, Cruz Jr, Sandy and Yolanda, three sons-in-law and a daughter-in-law; 24 grandchildren and 48 great-grandchildren; Five sisters: Nona, Josie, Angie, Sylvia and Mary, and brother Henry; Two brothers-in-law, and three sisters-in-law. Many nieces and nephews, and a community of friends, church family and neighbors. Juana leaves behind a legacy of love. Juana poured her love into her family, and they responded in kind, by loving Juana with all their hearts. Sweet memories of her, will make her loved ones smile through their tears because of her treasure of love.