With heavy hearts and overwhelming sorrow, we are sad to announce that Florence M. McElroy, our beloved Mother, Grandmother, Friend and Angel, left to be with the Lord on Aug. 16, 2010.

Florence, born on Sept. 24, 1922 in Santa Barbara, was known as one of the most caring, selfless, heartwarming people who continually lived out each day of her life with true passion, love and happiness. The strength Florence expressed lead her family and friends to recognize the true meaning of life and influenced those who loved her not only to better themselves, but the ones that surrounded them as well. She was known for being a strong-willed, independent woman who touched many lives within her time. Her energy and humor brought life and happiness to peoples faces daily.

Florence, a resident of Ventura County for over 50 years, worked as a nurse for many years, passionately helping those in need. Later in life she spent her time loving and caring for her daughter, Melody, whom she loved and protected unconditionally. Florence lived for her family and would, without a doubt, do anything in her willpower to bring happiness, stability and a great life to them. Florence's daughter Melody later had a daughter, Tiffany, who was raised by our loving Florence. She stood as one of the strongest and most positive influences in Tiffany's life.

Florence's therapeutic attitude and affectionate personality towards everyone in her family was admirable, unstoppable and never ending. Florence loved with all of her strength and being and her sense of responsibility and compassion was forever instilled within her which she demonstrated throughout her life to her family and friends emotionally and unconditionally.

As a devout Catholic, her dedication and love for the Lord was ongoing, absolute and truly admirable. She was overpoweringly surrounded by the love of the Lord, her family and friends. We know that she is now with her true Father watching over her loved ones with true happiness and spirituality.

Florence is preceded by her father, Robert Ovieda, and mother, Fidelia Ovieda.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Melody; her beloved granddaughter, Tiffany; her son-in-law, Thomas; her sister, Dorothy; her niece, Bobbie; her niece, Denise and husband Cliff; her niece, Toni and husband David; her nephew, Alan Young; and many other loving family members.

Visitation was held from 5 to 8 p.m. with a rosary at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 19 at Griffin Family Funeral Chapels, 1075 E. Daily Dr., Camarillo. Funeral mass will be at 10 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 20 at Sacred Heart Parish, 10800 Henderson Rd., Ventura.