Estelle Keatton Flores

Born on January 12, 1940, in Mercedes, Texas, Estelle was the cherished daughter of Maria Rosa Castaneda and Burlin Lowery Keatton. Estelle grew up in the Rio Grande Valley and graduated from Donna High School. She later attended Pan American University, where she met the love of her life and soulmate, Ricardo R. Flores. Later, affectionately known by many as “Coach.” Richard and Estelle shared a remarkable love story and were married for nearly 60 years before his passing following a courageous battle with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Education was both Estelle’s profession and her passion. Throughout her distinguished teaching career, she inspired generations of students with her patience, encouragement, and belief in their potential. She taught English at Edinburg High School, worked with dyslexic learners at Barrientes Jr. High, and concluded her career at J. Economedes High School. Her influence extended far beyond the classroom, as she dedicated herself to helping students gain confidence in themselves and their abilities.

Retirement did not slow Estelle’s desire to connect with people and brighten their days. She continued sharing her warm smile, positive attitude, and caring spirit while working at Toyota of Pharr, where she made lasting friendships and touched the lives of customers and coworkers alike.

Estelle will be remembered for her infectious positivity, generous heart, her ability to make everyone feel welcome, her perfectly applied red lipstick, her beautiful voice, and most importantly her amazing gritos. She believed in the power of kindness, the value of education, and the importance of family. Whether offering words of encouragement, lending a helping hand, or simply sharing a smile, she had a gift for making others feel seen and valued.

Above all, Estelle treasured her family. She carried herself with grace, strength, and resilience, serving as an example to all who knew her. The lessons she taught, both in and out of the classroom, will continue to live on through the countless lives she touched.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, “Coach” Richard R. Flores and her parents.

She is survived by her loving family, including her son, Rick Flores, and daughter, Cynthia and son-in-law Michael Bladl, her two sisters, Florence Tijerina and Doris Morin and brother-in-law Richard Morin, and her brother Woody Uresti. She is also survived by her sisters-in-laws, along with many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and along with many dear friends, former students, colleagues, and community members who were blessed to know her.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all who provided care, which included South Texas Health Systems Edinburg, The Bridges of Edinburg, and Eric Pena and Raul Carrillo from A Healing Touch, Home Health and Hospice who provided friendship, and compassion during Estelle’s final days.

Though she is no longer with us in person, Estelle’s love, optimism, and gentle spirit remain woven into the hearts of those she leaves behind. Her life was a testament to the difference one person can make through kindness, dedication, and love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026 at Trinity Episcopal Church at 210 W. Caffery Ave in Pharr, Texas at 10am. A graveside service will be held at 1p.m. at Funeraria Del Angle and Valley Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, you can make a donation to American Heart Hero Donation.