Earl Benton Flora

Earl Benton Flora, 88, passed away on Friday, August 15, 2025 in Roanoke, Virginia. He was born in Boones Mill, Virginia on March 22, 1937, to Daniel Jacob Flora and Stella Peters Flora. Earl first married Martha Coles. They had one son Earl Benton (Ben) Flora Jr. Earl’s second marriage was to Janet Hedge and they enjoyed 38 years together. Earl and Janet were blessed to take numerous trips with friends during their years together.

Earl lived the early years of his life on the Flora farm where he was born. There he learned farming life which included gardening, animal care, machinery and the hard tasks of that life style. Earl was very active in the 4-H and FFA organizations during his high school years. He was talented in cattle judging and won the tractor driving contest as a high school senior. Growing up on a poultry farm, he learned chickens quite well. Earl was the winner of the Virginia chicken judging contest and represented the state in the national competition, tying for fourth place.

After high school Earl attended Ferrum College, earning a business degree. He later became a top salesman for the Keebler Corporation, winning several awards. He was an avid car fan who always kept his personal vehicles neat and clean. After retirement from Keebler, Earl became a valued leader in car transport. He led teams of drivers who hauled and moved cars for both General Import and Haley Toyota.

Earl was a member of three Church of the Brethren congregations: Bethlehem, Ninth Street and Roanoke Oak Grove. He last regularly attended Covenant Presbyterian in Roanoke.

Earl will be remembered for his friendliness and kindness. The residents and caregivers at Harmony and Pheasant Ridge frequently spoke of how much they liked Earl. He very much appreciated those who helped him and he always used the terms “please” and “thank you” which were genuine.

Earl was preceded in death by his sisters, Mabel Angell, Clyde Bowman and Jewell Bowman; and brother, Galen Flora. He is survived by his wife Janet Flora; son Ben Flora of Roanoke, VA, brother-in-law Carl Bowman of Boones Mill, VA; brother and sister-in-law Roger and Jean Hedge of Montgomery, AL. Earl is also survived by cousins, nieces, nephews and beloved friends.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, August 22, 2025 at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Roanoke, led by Reverend Rachel Vogado. Light refreshments will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, Earl’s family suggests memorial gifts to Covenant Presbyterian (1831 Deyerle Rd. SW, Roanoke, VA 24018).

Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.