Florie Cleaves

With love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of Mrs. Florie Pauline Simeon Asforis Cleaves, who peacefully entered eternal rest on July 9, 2026, at the age of 83.

Florie was born on June 26, 1943, in the beautiful fishing village of Laborie, Saint Lucia, West Indies, to Lucien Charles and Paul Simeon. Following the loss of her mother at a very young age, she was adopted and raised by her aunt and uncle, Lourdes and Arturo Asforis. The family later migrated to Panama, where Florie grew up into a remarkable woman known for her strength, resilience, and compassionate heart.

Fluent in Creole, a French-based language that is a central part of the island's vibrant culture, Spanish, and English, Florie never met a stranger. Florie was bright, fun-loving, and full of life. Her warm smile, infectious laughter, and welcoming spirit made everyone feel at home. She loved gardening, cooking, traveling, and spending time with family. Affectionately known as "Shorty," her larger-than-life personality, honesty, and sense of humor left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

On April 15, 1966, she married Fletcher Cleaves Jr., who preceded her death, an American soldier, in Panama. Together they raised three children in the United States Army: Darling, Sheila, and Danny Cleaves, who preceded her in death.

She leaves to cherish her memory, two daughters, Darling Cordero and Sheila Doyle; two sons-in-law, José Cordero and Condell Doyle; four beloved grandchildren, José Cordero Jr., Dominick Cordero, Myisha Doyle, and Danielle Doyle; her younger siblings; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Florie's love, strength, generosity, and joyful spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Retired Army Sergeant First Class Fletcher Cleaves Jr., at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."Matthew 25:23

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:30 am on July 27, 2026, at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home, 1615 South Fort Hood Road, Killeen, TX 765421654, US. Interment will follow at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen.