Junior Flores Garcia “Pocho”, a proud and strong-willed Leo, passed away on August 5, 2025, in Merced, at the age of 55. Known for his fierce determination and generous heart, he faced life’s challenges with courage and dignity. Fiercely loyal, he protected those he loved.
A diehard Dallas Cowboys fan, Junior also had a true passion for cooking — the kind that brought people together. He loved to cook for everyone, especially his family, and was well-known for feeding both stomachs and souls. In fact, his skills in the kitchen became part of his charm; on a dating app years ago, he proudly used the profile name “1BadAssChef” and it was under that very name that he met his wife, Irma.
A Viewing will be held at Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home on Sunday, August 17th, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The Rosary will take place at the funeral home on Monday, August 18th, at 10:30 a.m., followed by the Chapel Blessing at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.
Junior was born in Fresno, California, on July 31, 1970, to Yolanda Flores and Florencio Garcia, but was lovingly raised by his grandparents, Perfecto and Epifania Flores, whom he always regarded as his parents.
He was preceded in death by his parents Perfecto and Epifania Flores; his daughter, Marisa; brothers Ramon, Alex, and Joe; and his biological parents, Yolanda and Florencio.
Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Irma; son, Jonathan; five sisters — Virgie Alonso (Tony) of Merced, CA; Cookie Flores (Jessie) of Odessa, TX; Ofie Orona (Rudy) of San Antonio, TX; Sally Flores of Odessa, TX; and Rebecca Garcia of Odessa, TX; five brothers — J.R. Flores (Jay) of Little Rock, AR; Paul Flores (Martha) of Atwater, CA; Raymond Flores of Midland, TX; Steven Flores of Odessa, TX; and Jesse Jimenez (Brenda) of Odessa, TX. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and his lifelong crew, True Gee’z D.O.G.S. — Hector, Juan, and Ruben.
Rest in peace, Pocho — you lived like the lion you were.
