John Flores Jr

May 15, 1943 - February 23, 2026

A quirky smile and endless stories. John was born in Los Angeles and lived his whole life in Downey, California. He graduated from Warren High School and kept close to many of his high school friends. He received his Bachelor of Science in Public Administration from the University of Southern California in 1975 and was a very loyal alumnus. John entered public service working for Mayor Tom Bradley in Criminal Justice Planning. He was instrumental in creating Project HEAVY, a non-profit service and advocacy agency for youth. He served as its first Executive Director and, in future years, for many additional agencies. His focus was always youth and advocacy oriented.

John served on many advisory boards and belonged to many interest groups, his favorite being the Cortez Viajeros. John had a love for camping and old cars. He combined these affections in multiple cross-country trips in his 1965 Cortez motorhome, including a three-month trip to Alaska. John, more recently, purchased a 1927 Model T, his pride and joy – one of many classic cars which were garaged at the Flores’ household and at every relative’s available space. John developed a love for international travel – hitting all the continents except for Antarctica. His two favorite destinations were Iceland and Scotland.

John is survived by his wife, Susan; his brother, David; his sons’ mother, Linda; his children: John Franciscus, Tomás Alfredo and Melanie Marie; his grandchildren: Milena, Kody (Ann), Sierra, Braden, and Gaia, and his great-grandson Kaleb. Extended family, both his and Susan’s, will hold him in their hearts.

He loved many and was loved by many.

He will be remembered and he will be missed.

Memorial Service will be held at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Downey, CA at 11:00 a.m. on March 21st, 2026

Donations may be made to World Central Kitchen and Navidad en el Barrio.