Pauline Florez

Pauline Florez, 92, of Fredonia, KS., passed away on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at her home. Pauline was born on April 18, 1932, in Chanute, KS. The daughter of John Lopez and Ruby Moody, at an early age Pauline was adopted and raised by the loving family of Refugio and Crescencia De La Torre. Pauline was a beloved matriarch to her family, a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandma, and great-grandmother. Pauline cherished her family. Her home was a sanctuary filled with warmth, laughter, and the irresistible aroma of her legendary Mexican dishes. You could usually find her rolling tortillas or perfecting her enchiladas. Her food symbolized her devotion and enduring tradition to pass down through generations to come. Pauline operated an in-home daycare for more than 35 years, taking care of numerous children and providing a second home to many who needed her love, guidance, and a sense of belonging. She had a gift of giving advice, wisdom, and humor for all of life’s lessons. Pauline was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Fredonia, the Altar Society, and the Fredonia Senior Center. She loved spending time with her family and friends, going out to eat, cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs, visiting casinos, and playing games at the senior center. Most importantly, she loved teaching her children and grandchildren the traditional way of cooking. On December 13, 1952, in Kansas City, MO., Pauline married Thomas Florez. Pauline and Tom were married for almost 69 years until his death on June 30, 2021. Her legacy lives on from her gentle spirit and the love she instilled into her family. Survivors include: Five Children: Teresa Apollo and husband Logan of Fredonia, KS Elizabeth Cox and husband Tim of Iola, KS Thomas Florez Jr. and wife Melissa of Fredonia, KS John Florez of Fredonia, KS Ann Huser and husband Roger of Fredonia, KS. Four Siblings: Crispin De La Torre of Chanute, KS Richard De La Torre of Ottawa, KS Robert De La Torre of Chanute, KS Juanita Lopez of Kansas City, KS 19 Grandchildren 31 Great Grandchildren and 3 Great-Great Grandchildren Pauline was preceded in death by her parents, husband Tom, grandson Camron Huser, brothers: Richard Lopez, Paul Lopez and Paul Saragosa. Sisters: Margaret Villagomez and Mary Reyes. Mass of Christian burial will be held on Friday, December 13, 2024, at 10:30 AM at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Fredonia, with burial to follow at the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Fredonia. Rosary will be recited at 10:00 AM. A visitation will be held on Thursday, December 12, 2024, from 4-7 PM at Countryside Funeral Home in Fredonia. Memorials have been suggested to ether the Sacred Heart Catholic Church or Diaper Heaven of Fredonia and may be left with or mailed to the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.countrysidefh.com Services are under the direction of Countryside Funeral Home 420 S. 20th St., P.O. Box 247, Fredonia, KS 66736

Pauline Florez

April 8, 1932 - December 3, 2024