Mary E. Florence

Cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend passed away on January 24, 2007. She was born to James and Nettie Northcott on March 31, 1912 in Liberal, Kansas and was a 67 year resident of Redondo Beach. She met and married her beloved husband Robert and began their family in Longview, Texas. On a vacation to California, Mary decided that California was the place that she wanted to raise her family. She made Bob promise that they would return and make it their home. True to his promise, they moved to California with their 3 daughters, Bobbie, Kathryn, and Shirley. After their move, they added a son, Richard to their family.

Mary was a remarkable self-taught businesswoman. In 1947, Mary opened her first fabric store in Redondo Beach, 'The Remnant Shop'. There were three more stores to follow with the entire family working in the business, Florence Fabrics, Inc.

Family was the foundation of Mary's life and she treasured her time with them. She leaves behind her daughter and son-in-law, Shirley and James Maxwell. Sadly, she was preceded in death by her loving husband Bob, daughters Bobbie and Katy, and son Richard. She had 13 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren that loved and adored her and called her 'Nan'.

Mary and her husband enjoyed traveling. They traveled throughout the world on business and pleasure. One of her favorite places was the Hawaiian Islands. She also enjoyed Europe and the Orient.

Mary was direct and had a great sense of humor. She was a great listener and always had an interesting or amusing story to tell. If anyone ever needed anything, she knew how to make it happen. She was our source of inspiration and encouragement.

Love and beautiful memories outlast the pain of grief. We know that there is a place inside the heart where love lives always… and nothing cherished can ever be forgotten. We could not keep her forever but we can hold the memories close in our hearts. She was so dear to all of us and we were very fortunate to have had her for so many years. She was a role model to us all. We love you and will miss you 'Nan'.

Visitation will be Monday, January 29, 2007 at 9:00 A.M. with services at 10:00 A.M. at Rice Mortuary, 5310 Torrance Blvd., Torrance. Interment will immediately follow at Green Hills Memorial Park, Rancho Palos Verdes.