William Patrick Flores

William “Willie” Patrick Flores, 78, of Pensacola, Florida, passed away peacefully on October 14, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 2, 1946, Willie was a lifelong resident of Pensacola and a proud graduate of Catholic High School.

Willie spent more than 35 years serving the city he loved with the Pensacola Fire Department. With grit, heart, and an unwavering sense of duty, he rose to the rank of Battalion Chief; a role he carried with quiet pride and deep humility. His career was marked by countless acts of courage and compassion: helping extinguish a fire that engulfed Jimmy Buffett’s iconic VW van, rescuing a child whose arm was trapped in an escalator, and reporting for duty on September 11, 2001, when the world felt uncertain and afraid. Just before he hung up his helmet, he faced down Hurricane Ivan; one last challenge before retirement. Willie never hesitated to step forward when others needed him. It was simply who he was.

But his greatest joy came from being a husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Willie was a man who showed up, who gave generously, and who loved deeply. He was known for his loyalty, his gentle spirit, and above all, his patience. He made everyone around him feel safe. Willie was deeply proud of his daughters, who carry forward his legacy of service and compassion. His eldest daughter served her country with honor as a veteran of both the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, while his youngest daughter continues to care for others as a dedicated nurse. Their strength and commitment were constant sources of joy and pride for him.

Willie is survived by his wife, Mary Elna, his daughters, Katrina Stensgaard and Nora McIlwain, son-in-law Mark Stensgaard, and the apple of his eye, granddaughter Sarah McIlwain. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Velma Lagergren and Betsie Flores, and his brothers, Robert “Pee Wee” Flores and Michael “Mike” Flores.

A Rosary will be held at St. Anne Catholic Church, 5200 Saufley Field Rd, Pensacola, FL 32526, on November 25, 2025, from 10:00 am to 10:30 am, followed by a Visitation from 10:30 am to 11:00 am. A Memorial Mass will take place at the same location from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

As the sun sets on a life well lived, the warmth of his spirit and his impact on those who love him remain. As we say goodbye, we hold close the memories that made him ours—and find comfort in knowing that his story lives on in every life he touched.

“But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble.” — Psalm 59:16