James Joseph Flores

1986 - 2024 James Joseph Flores (AKA “JJ”) born February 4, 1986, in Albuquerque, NM, passed away unexpectedly in Los Lunas on January 26, 2024 just 10 days short of his 38th birthday. JJ is survived by his mother, Lisa Jourden and husband, Rick; his father, James Flores and Joan Halsell; maternal grandparents, Bobby and Irene Martinez, and paternal grandmother, Sadie Kleinstiver. Also surviving him is his auntie, Debra Martinez-Edeal, special goddaughter & cousin, Jewelles Edeal, uncle, Robert Martinez, and cousin Chris Martinez. JJ leaves behind numerous other aunts, uncles, cousins and countless friends from near and far. He was preceded in death by grandfather, Herman Flores; grandmother, Susie Flores; grandfather, Harv Kleinstiver; As a youngster, JJ, who most referred to as “J,” attended Assembly of God School in Bosque Farms, liked to play sports, spend nights and have fun with grandma and grandpa Martinez, going to Elephant Butte lake for part of each summer for fishing and boating with his grandpa Harv and grandma Sadie, horseback riding around the neighborhood, playing with his friends, and just being a kid. HE LOVED TO EAT! Among his favorites were Grandma Martinez’s tacos, Auntie Mari’s biscochitos, Benny Burgers from Benny’s, Tomahawk steaks from Uncle Dennis and Auntie Tammy, BBQs at Uncle James’ and Auntie Carols and anything his mother made him. JJ loved sports and was a diehard Pittsburgh Steelers and Los Angeles Dodgers fan. He loved March Madness and always had his bracket ready and enjoyed MMA as well. An athlete himself, he was an accomplished football and baseball player at Yucca Little League, YAFL, AAU, St. Pius, and the New Mexico Military Institute. Along the way, he became a decent golfer. He loved to work out, spending many years at Main Street Gym in Los Lunas with his friend, Chris Sais. At the time of his death, JJ was working at Young Guns Construction with Chris Trujillo. Prior employment included the LSX Ranch, Cowboy Rx, Releaf, Sandbox Oil/Transportation in Dilley, TX, Maez Drilling, Albuquerque Water Authority, Village of Los Lunas, and Coca Cola. As a youngster still in school he worked at Gizmos and Central Market, both in downtown Albuquerque. He had an incredible work ethic and the physical strength to accomplish any job given. JJ grew up in a Christian environment and maintained a deep faith in God until his passing. He had a huge heart and would give whatever he had in his pockets to any of his godchildren if they needed something, or even if they didn’t. His generosity was endless, almost to a fault. “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.”-Romans 8:1-2 A special thanks to those who constantly watched over him; special aunties Tammy Chavez, Kathy Chavez, Carol Benavidez and Mari Navarro, life-long friend, Rico Gonzales, Circle of Brothers, Chris Trujillo, Isaac Griego, Mario Griego, Chris Rodriguez, Isaac Chacon, Preston Royce, David Dunworth, Jared Hunter, Steven Rael, Justin Bossard, Derek Garley and Aram (Ram) Cruz. We know there are many more to thank, you know who you are. God Bless each and every one of you. Our beloved JJ has left us way to soon. Our only consolations include knowing that he has no more pain and is spending quality time with those close to him who preceded him in death. We have great appreciation for Dicky Romero and his entire staff at Romero Funeral Home for helping us navigate through this very difficult time. Please sign JJ’s online tribute at www.romerofuneralhomenm.com Romero Funeral Home, 609 N. Main St., Belen, NM.

James Joseph Flores

February 4, 1986 - January 26, 2024