Dr. James Patrick Florez

Dr. James Patrick Florez, also known as Jim, passed away on April 30, 2026. Born on March 17, 1945, in Kansas City, Kansas, Jim lived a life marked by dedication to his family, career, and passions.

Jim was a proud graduate of Rosedale High School, Class of 1963, in Kansas City, Kansas. He pursued higher education at the University of Kansas, earning an undergraduate degree before briefly working as an electrical engineer. His love for learning led him back to the University of Kansas Medical School, where he attained his medical degree in internal medicine. Jim further specialized with a fellowship in pulmonary medicine at UAMS in Arkansas. Jim thought highly of his partners, Jerry Herron and Nancy Rector. He devoted the majority of his professional career to Baptist Health Medical Center, retiring in 2019.

Known for his dry sense of humor and ability to make others feel at ease, Jim was a valued friend and colleague. His friends and family often relied on his expertise with computers and engineering, impressed by his troubleshooting skills. His children fondly believed there was nothing he couldn’t fix.

Jim loved to tinker and kept himself busy with cars, computers, and his “honey-do” list. He enjoyed staying active and engaged in hands-on projects that filled his days with purpose.

He was deeply proud of his children and loved them dearly. Jim is survived by his wife of 40 years, Donna Florez; his children Brian Florez, Brendan Florez, Alexandra Cottrell and her husband Jason, and Catherine Moore and her husband Shane; and his siblings Ronald Florez and his wife Michelle, Venita Florez Greenbaum and her husband Jeff, along with his sister-in-law, Salita Florez. He is also remembered fondly by a wide circle of family and friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, George and Juanita Florez, and his brothers Richard Florez, Raymond Florez, George Florez and Rudolph “Rudy” Florez.

Jim Florez will be remembered for his skill, kindness, and humor. He leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication that will continue to inspire those who knew him.