Florence Dorothy Lundy

Florence was born in Newington, Connecticut on April 11, 1922. Her parents, Samuel and Walentyna Sielugoski, immigrated from Poland and lived an austere life as farm workers. At an early age, Florence had to forego schooling and at times support her family by working in the fields and tobacco barns. Undeterred and demonstrating a resolve she would exhibit throughout her life, she later obtained her high school diploma as an adult.

In her early twenties, Florence married a young Marine, Frank Lundy, who fought in World War II. With fate smiling upon them, Florence was originally scheduled to meet another Marine on the night she met Frank. Yet, with the other would-be suitor being pulled away on last-minute duty, Frank, ever the gentleman, stepped in to treat Florence to a memorable date. Thus began a courtship and a profound love that lasted a lifetime.

After returning home from serving his country, Frank and Florence began their life together in Flint, Michigan. There they raised a family of three children, Pat, Charles, and Ruth Lundy. Frank and Florence shared a deep and abiding love for all to see. In the mid-1970s, they moved to Florida and enjoyed a wonderful retirement in Vero Beach. They traveled often, exploring the world – including Europe, Hawaii, and many places in between – and savoring each new adventure with each other by their side. After Frank’s passing in 2002, Florence began her life alone, always involved in church and community life. In her retirement, she also loved to work and did so into her 90s.

Florence’s warm presence was felt by everyone who had the great fortune to experience her sunny disposition, subtle humor, and innate kindness. She made everyone feel worthy and loved. Florence was a friend to many, whether at church, in the gym, or through lifelong connections. These relationships were the foundation of the truly fulfilling life she lived in Vero Beach.

Her cheerful and ever-positive spirit endeared Florence to her good friends and colleagues at the Jungle Club (now called Vero Fitness), where she showcased her extraordinary fitness even at an advanced age. After picking up running in her late 70s, Florence twice won the Disney World Half Marathon for the over-80 age group. Her fitness prowess didn’t end there – she could hold a plank for nearly ten minutes, often doing so while reading a book.

She had two great loves: her Faith and her Family. Her family grew from three children to six grandchildren and now eight great-grandchildren.

Florence maintained a deep and loving connection with all her grandchildren, always reaching out to celebrate important milestones and occasions or just to say hello. Her grandchildren cherish the dozens of voicemails they have kept of her sweet voice. Florence had a remarkable gift for making them feel special and loved. She never let time zones or busy lives get in the way of passing along her affection or sharing a humorous story about how “cold” Florida was whenever temperatures dipped below 80 degrees.

While God has called Florence home to reunite with Frank, she will be missed dearly by all those who knew her. Her memory will live in their hearts and minds, serving as an enduring model for what it means to live with compassion, positivity, good humor, perseverance, and true kindness.

Funeral services for Florence will be held at Aycock Funeral Home on Saturday, August 23. There will be a viewing from 1:00 to 2:00pm. The service will commence at 2:00pm and conclude at 2:45pm. The graveside service will immediately follow.