Donald Florence
Age - 88
December 9, 2023
Donald Edward Florence, beloved husband of Mary Catherine Florence for 65 years, passed away on Dec 4th, 2023 at the age of 88 yrs old. He was a devoted father of four, cherished grandfather of nine, and proud great-grandfather of four. In addition, he was a loving bonus grandfather and great-grandfather to another four.
Born on August 5, 1935 on a farm in Grand-Prairie, Texas, Donald was the son of Jack Florence and Mary Florence. He grew up in Grand Prairie, Texas and developed a strong work ethic working on the family farm from a young age.
After completing high school, Donald worked at a pharmacy until he was drafted into the Army where he served from 1959-1963 with high security clearance during the Vietnam War. He embarked on a successful career as a business owner of a catering truck. His excellent personal skills helped him grow a profitable business so much so that when the company he sub-leased his truck from had an opening, they offered him a management position. He excelled in his field, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues and clients alike. He eventually managed entire locations providing equipment and product for hundreds of small caterers. Donald's professionalism, integrity, and likability were the hallmarks of his work.
Outside of his professional life, Donald was an avid golfer and devoted family man. He met the love of his life, Mary Catherine, and they were united in marriage on June 2nd, 1957. Their 1st Christmas together Cathy gave Don golf clubs. He was able to celebrate 3 hole-in-ones during his years of playing. Don and Cathy created a home filled with love and laughter and shared countless memories. Donald's four children and their spouses, Sondra and her late husband James, Terri, Darryl and his beloved wife Beth, and Margaret and her cherished husband Bill, were his pride and joy, and he cherished the time spent with each of them. AND Dad was a Dog person, he had many faithful dogs over the years Cookie, Daisy Mae, Jelly Bean, more recently Ranger and Molly.
As a grandfather, Donald embraced his role with warmth, love, and laughter. He was a constant source of entertainment, guidance, and encouragement to his nine grandchildren, Patrick, Robert, Daniel, Micheal, Samantha, Darlene, Mason, Harrison, & Bryce. He celebrated their milestones, and provided a loving presence in their lives and enjoyed teasing them and making them laugh.
Becoming a great-grandfather brought immense joy to Donald's life. He cherished the opportunity to see his family grow and to pass down his wisdom and love to the next generation. His five great-grandchildren, Ethan, Brandon, Cadon, Aubree, and Liam were a source of immeasurable happiness, and he treasured every moment spent with them.
Donald's love extended beyond his immediate family, as he became a beloved bonus grandfather and great-grandfather to another four. He embraced Megan and Logan as well as Noelle and Natalie as part of his family, offering his love and support.
Donald will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for his family. He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate to know him.
A visitation for Donald will be held Friday, December 15, 2023 from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM, prior to the funeral service, at Church of the Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 2020 S Collins St, Arlington, TX 76010. Funeral service to follow at 10:30 AM. A committal service will occur Monday, December 18, 2023 at10:00 AM at Moore Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens, 1219 North Davis Drive, Arlington, TX 76012.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made in his honor to the SPCA:
https://spca. org/support-us/give/ways-to-give/
Donald Edward Florence will be deeply missed by his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, bonus grandchildren, bonus great-grandchildren, and all those whose lives he touched. May his soul rest in eternal peace.Show more
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