Elvia Flores, 78, of Rock Island, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:00 pm on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at St. Pius X Catholic Church, Rock Island. Visitation will take place from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm on Thursday at the church. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Rock Island. Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Rock Island, is assisting the family.

Elvia was born on June 12, 1947, in Mexico, the daughter of Martin Valverde and Sofia Aceval. She married the love of her life, Agustin B. Flores, on July 25, 1970.

In her later years, she was affectionately known as Lita, short for Abuelita, a name her grandchildren lovingly gave her and that became part of her identity among those who knew her best.

Elvia led an inspiring life.  Some of her chosen career paths included the mayor of her hometown La Constancia, Dgo., as well as a Spanish DJ for the KALA, a college radio station for St. Ambrose.  However, her greatest passion was education—Elvia was a devoted teacher who touched countless lives in both Mexico and the U.S. She was proud of her heritage that she connected with many Latino lives in the US and tried to help as many as she could always educating about culture and history of Mexico.

In early years, a proud and active member of the Latino Catholic community, Elvia was known for her joyful spirit and vibrant personality. She loved to dance, especially polka, and cherished spending time with her friends and family. Her generosity showed no limits, as she touched many lives enveloping them as family, giving gifts on every occasion to show that she cared for them. She was a loving grandmother who adored her five grandchildren and always stayed involved in their lives.

Elvia also had a gift for public speaking, she enjoyed reading poetry aloud and sharing meaningful words with others. Her colorful collection of big hats was a signature part of her style, and she wore them with confidence and joy.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Agustin; her children, Sophia "Chopita" (Ryan) Powers of Erie, CO, and Sergio "Keko" (Desiree) Flores of Davenport, IA; her beloved grandchildren, Lexi, Aedan, Achilles, and Avery Powers, and Brady Flores; and her siblings, Minerva and Froylan.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.wheelanpressly.com.

Flores Family
Web: https://www.gofundme.com/f/honor-elivia-flores-support-her-funeral-costs?attribution_id=sl:b3790ee2-