Joe Flores, 72, of Abilene, Texas, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 3, 2026. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 11am at St. Francis Catholic Church with burial to follow at the Texas State Veterans Cemetery. Rosary will be held Wednesday July 8, 2026 at 6pm at North's Funeral Home. Joe was born on September 8, 1953, in Winters, Texas, where he was raised and attended school. After graduating, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. He proudly served for 16 years and was a Vietnam veteran. Following his honorable discharge, Joe continued his life of public service with the United States Postal Service, where he worked faithfully for 30 years before retiring. In 1981, Joe married the love of his life and childhood sweetheart, Deborah Cortez Flores. Together they built a loving family and shared many happy years together. Joe found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved reading, caring for animals, especially his cats Maxwell and Velvetine, camping, fishing, boating, and cooking for family and friends. Known for his quiet and gentle nature, Joe expressed his love through his actions, always willing to lend a helping hand and provide for those he cared about. His strength, kindness, and unwavering devotion to his family will be remembered by all who knew him. Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Deborah Cortez Flores of Abilene; his children, Marc Flores and wife Maegan of Odessa, Joe Reese Flores of Abilene, and Zoey Flores of Abilene; his sisters, Sylvia Hernandez of Midland and Marylou Flores of Austin; his brother, Roy Flores of Midland; 11 grandchildren, 3 step-grandchildren,3 great grandchildren, along with numerous extended family members and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Mr. and Mrs. Abel Flores Sr., son, Joe D. Flores, brother Abel Jr. sister Rosalinda Flores, mother and father in law Julia A. Cortez, Jake Cortez Jr. and brother in law Donald Jake Cortez. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone for their prayers, love, and support during this difficult time. Jose's legacy of faithful service, quiet strength, and unconditional love for his family will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.