Herbert "Bert" Merrick Florio

November 6, 1947 – October 19, 2026

Herbert “Bert” Merrick Florio, 78, passed away unexpectedly on October 19, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, a legacy of service, and a family and circle of friends who will forever hold him close in their hearts.

Born on November 6, 1947, in Sharon, Connecticut, to Felix and Audrey Florio, Bert lived a life marked by dedication, patriotism, faith, and love for those closest to him. Throughout his life, he built meaningful connections, served his country with pride, and touched the lives of many who were fortunate enough to know him.

Bert’s love for God was an important part of his life. His faith was a source of comfort and strength, and it reflected the values of love, devotion, and compassion that shaped the man he was. As his family and friends remember his life, they can take comfort in the hope and promise of God’s eternal love and the peace that comes from knowing he is now in His loving care.

More than 20 years ago, Bert made his home in the Spring Hill area, where fate brought him to the love of his life, Eslene. The two were married in 2005, beginning a beautiful chapter together filled with love, companionship, and the precious moments that make a life truly meaningful. Eslene was his beloved wife, his partner, and the love of his life. Their bond was a treasured part of Bert’s story, and the love they shared will remain an enduring part of his legacy.

Bert devoted many years of his working life to serving the State of New York as a medical aide at Wassaic Developmental Center. His years of service reflected a commitment to his work and to helping others. In addition to his professional career, Bert proudly served in the United States Air Force, completing two tours in Vietnam. His military service was a source of great pride, as were his love for his country and the sacrifices he made in its service. He was looking forward to an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., an opportunity to reflect upon and celebrate the service that meant so much to him.

Above all, Bert will be remembered as a beloved husband, brother, uncle, and friend. He leaves behind his loving wife, Eslene; his brother, Philip (Nancy); his brother, Laurence “Larry”; and numerous nieces and nephews, along with many dear friends whose lives were made brighter by having Bert in them.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Felix and Audrey Florio; his brother, Floris, affectionately known as “Beau”; and his beloved niece, Amanda.

Though Bert’s passing was unexpected, the love he gave and the memories he created will remain with those who knew him. His life was one of service, faith, devotion, and connection, and his memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. While words can never fully express the sorrow of saying goodbye, they can honor the beautiful life he lived and the lasting mark he leaves behind.

Memorial Service

A memorial service celebrating Bert’s life will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Christ Lutheran Church in Brooksville, Florida. Family and friends are welcome to gather to honor Bert’s life, share memories, and celebrate the love, faith, and service that defined him.

Interment will take place at Florida National Cemetery at a later date, where Bert will be laid to rest with honor in recognition of his proud service to our country.

In Loving Memory and Honor of Bert

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Bert’s memory may make a donation to Christ Lutheran Church in Brooksville, Florida, or to Honor Flight of West Central Florida, an organization that honors America’s veterans by helping them visit the memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifice. These gifts would be a meaningful way to remember Bert’s faith, honor his dedication to his country, and continue supporting causes that reflect the values he held dear.

Bert will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished. May he rest peacefully in the loving arms of God, knowing that he was loved beyond measure and that his life made a difference to so many. His service to his country will be remembered with pride, and the love he shared with Eslene and his family will never be forgotten.

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Never forgotten.