Joe Bruton Flores, retired Army Colonel, died on May 6, 2017.

Joe is survived by his loving wife, Betsy (Draina) Flores, four children (Joellen Flores Simmons of Rockport, TX; Bob Flores of Vienna, VA; Anne Loosigian Flores of Andover, MA; and David Flores of Virginia Beach, VA.), and nine grandchildren. Another daughter, Patrice Flores Chaney, died in 2013.

Joe attended Allen Military Academy, and graduated from the US Military Academy at West Point in 1946. He later earned a Masters in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Southern California. His distinguished 30-year career with the U.S. Army included service in Panama, Korea, and Germany, and several States.  He retired in 1976 as a Colonel.  He was highly decorated, but rarely spoke of his battles or achievements.

Joe was very active in the Catholic Church. He taught his children to love God, family, and country. "Joe-Pop" loved visiting and spending time with his grandchildren. He was a kind and gentle person with a dry sense of humor. His wit was evident in many of the speeches he delivered throughout his life journey. He enjoyed telling stories of his humble upbringing and ancestral history.

He had a gentle soul and was always helping and thinking of others.  He left his West Point class ring to the U.S. Military Academy, "so that if there was a young man who could not afford a ring, he would be given his." His patriotism was remarkable and inspiring. He will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors.

In lieu of sending flowers, please consider donating in Joe's honor to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.