Irma Montano Flores, the beloved matriarch, devoted wife, and "forever friend" to many, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of unconditional love and unwavering faith.

A Life of Spirit and Ambition

Born in Tucson on February 22, 1937, to Leonides Bustamante Montano and Emilia Camou Montano, Irma was the third of nine children. Her independent spirit emerged early; as a young girl, she famously convinced Woolworth’s to hire her despite being underage. She took immense pride in running the downtown candy counter—and even more pride in buying her very first car with her own earnings. Her generous nature was already on display back then, as she frequently "gave away the profits" by providing a candy bowl for her coworkers, much to her manager’s chagrin.

A graduate of Immaculate Heart Academy and a proud member of Las Mademoiselles, Irma eventually built a successful, lengthy career with Valley National Bank. While she held many roles, she found her true professional calling as an Investment Banker.

Sixty-Five Years of Love

In 1959, a blind date changed her life forever. Irma met Richard "My Honey" Flores, the man who would become her best friend and partner for the next 65 years. The pair married on October 1, 1960, and recently celebrated their milestone 65th anniversary in October 2025 with a grand family "Pachanga"—a testament to the joy and vibrant culture they shared.

The Heart of the Home

As a mother, Irma was a guiding light. She and Richard raised four children: Teresita Irma, Richard Esteban, Norma Cecelia, and Francisco Gerardo. Whether living in Nogales, Tucson, Globe, or Colorado, Irma made every house a sanctuary. Her favorite refuge was their home in Greer, Arizona (1999–2015), where she cultivated "forever friendships" and welcomed all with her contagious smile and a warm plate of food.

Irma’s faith was her compass. Even after the heartbreaking loss of her son, Richard, in 2017, she remained the family’s bedrock. She was a "prayer warrior" who began every morning by sending daily readings and messages of love to her children and grandchildren. To Irma, family was not just a group of people; it was a sacred unit to be protected, supported, and cherished above all else. Even at the end of a long day, her playful spirit remained; every night, she would look at her husband and announce, "Tengo hambrita," usually followed by a request for a favorite comfort: huevos y papitas.

Family Legacy

Irma is survived by her devoted husband, Richard Tena Flores; her children, Terri (Paul Wood) Flores-Brown, Norma (Martin) Camacho, and Frank (Edgar Huerta) Flores; and daughter-in-law, Lisa Davis Flores.

She remains the adored "Nana" to her grandchildren: Jared (Yaritza) Shafer, Samantha (Chris) Parrinello, Shelby (Alex) Calleja, Celina Provencio, Dr. Juliana Provencio, D.O., and Dominic Camacho; and her great-granddaughters, Ella Parrinello and Emilia Rose Calleja.

She is also survived by her siblings: Leo (Rosemarie) Montano, Grace (Albert) Rigoli, Norma (Gavin) Kayner, Rosemary (Robert) Miranda, Ralph (Esther) Montano, and Elizabeth (Richard) Rollman.

She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Richard E. Flores; her parents, Leonides and Emilia Montano; her sister, Violet Heeb; and her brother, Joseph Montano.

Irma’s beauty was undeniable, inside and out. Her family will forever miss her "on point" phone calls, her contagious laugh, and the simple, powerful comfort of her morning text: "I’m praying for you”, “I love you mucho”, and always “Have a blessed day”.

Visitation, 4:00 - 7:00 PM, Friday, February 6, 2026, Saint Pius X Catholic Church, 1800 N. Camino Pío Décimo, Tucson, Arizona 85715 with a Rosary from 5:00 - 5:30 PM.

Mass of Christian Burial, 10:00 AM, Saturday, February 7, 2026, Saint Pius X Catholic Church, 1800 N. Camino Pío Décimo, Tucson, Arizona 85715.

Burial will follow at Holy Hope Cemetery, 3555 N. Oracle Road, Tucson, Arizona, 85705 with a reception to follow.

Irma’s family invites you to share your favorite memories, stories, and photographs on the online obituary guestbook at the Sensible Funerals & Cremation website. Your written tributes will serve as a lasting comfort and a treasure for her children and grandchildren as they celebrate a life so beautifully lived.