Odilia Flores Duran

Odilia Flores Duran, 90, of Houston, Texas was called to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, September 20, 2023. She was born in Sonora, Texas on July 6, 1933 to Esteban Longoria Flores and Maria (Castillo) Flores. In addition to her parents, Odilia is preceded in death by her husband, Ezequiel Garza Duran, Jr., brothers Robert Flores of California, Esteban (Steve) Flores of Houston, Texas and sister, Delia Pina of Eldorado, Texas.
Odilia married Ezequiel G. Duran, Jr. on Dec. 29, 1956 in Sonora, Texas and they moved to Lubbock, Texas for a short while where she practiced nursing. Soon afterwards, they moved to Houston and Odilia continued to practice nursing at Memorial Hospital and then Methodist Hospital (Medical Center) where she worked 20+ years.
As a nurse, it was not uncommon to receive phone calls at all hours from family, neighbors and friends for health advice and she always willingly helped. Often times she would make house calls to the sick to check on them, to console a worried mother and father and always giving permission to call her anytime if they needed. She had a heart for nursing.
But Odilia’s passion were her crafts. From ceramics, cake decorating, china painting, crocheting and almost anything in between; she loved working with her hands.
Known to many as Lily and by her grandchildren as Gagi; anyone who came to know her through her grandchildren also called her Gagi.
Odilia loved her God and often would break out in praise songs (sometimes in Spanish; sometimes in English) anywhere and at any time. Not always knowing all the words and sometimes a little off key, but that did not stop her from singing.
Odilia is survived by her daughter, Orfa Linda Rice and son, Ezequiel Duran III. She is survived by her grandchildren, whom she loved very much, Ana Cierra Rice and Stephen Andrew Rice. She is also survived by her sister, Cristela C. Flores of Houston, Texas and by many nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to thank everyone who has prayed for her and the family through this difficult time. We find comfort in knowing that Odilia is free from pain and suffering and resting in peace.