Barbara Florez

Barbara Florez

Barbara B. Florez, 63, passed away peacefully surrounded by family Friday (August 5, 2016) at Via Christi Hospital St. Francis in Wichita.

Barbara was born on March 20, 1953, in Newton, the daughter of James and Gloria Garcia.  Her father preceded her in death.

She graduated from Newton High School and was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.  On May 12, 1973, Barbara was united in marriage to John M. Florez in Newton and shortly thereafter, moved to Stillwater, Oklahoma.  Upon returning to Newton, Barbara began working at Lupe’s Carryout and ended her career after 28 years.

Barbara was a skilled crafter.  She learned to crochet at an early age and made gifts consisting of doilies, blankets, ornaments, dolls, and much more.  She had a passion for baking and cooking.  Everyone loved her cooking, especially her pork burritos which she would sell right out of her kitchen.  Music was another interest for Barbara.  She enjoyed all music ranging from Motown, Funk, R&B and contemporary music.  One of her favorite activities included taking long drives while listening to her music.

As her mobility became compromised, Barbara began using her laptop to reach out to family and friends through social media.  She made online friends, many of whom expressed their deepest condolences to the family at the loss of Barbara.  She touched many lives and will be greatly missed.

Barbara is survived by her husband of 43 years, John; her children, Raquel, Martha, Erica and companion Jason Miller all of Newton; her grandson Roman Michael; her sisters, Anita Llamas and husband Mario, Angela Jaso and husband Richard, Rita Rubio and husband Juan, Cynthia Reyes, Cecelia Romero, Lucinda Christianson; her brothers, Jesus Garcia and wife Pauline, and Jose Garcia all of Newton; her sisters-in law, Mary Fernandez and husband Ernest of Prairie Village, Carolyn Moon and husband Rick of Mission; and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Recitation of the Holy Rosary will be prayed at 7 p.m. Wednesday and Funeral Mass will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 421 S. Ash in Newton.

The family would like to thank everyone for their generous offerings and words of comforting prayer during this difficult time.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Our Lady of Guadalupe Building Fund. Petersenfamilyfuneralhome.com.