Thelma Estelle Flanagan

Thelma Estelle Gordon Flanigan, age 87, went to be with her Heavenly Father on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Serenity Estates in Daytona Beach, Florida, surrounded by her loving family.

Estelle was a woman of great faith, kindness, and warmth who never met a stranger. She enjoyed gardening, crafting, singing, canning, and talking with people. Her beautiful crafts and caring spirit blessed the lives of many who knew and loved her. She devoted her life to her family and leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and treasured memories.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, James Coleman Gordon, with whom she shared 39 years of marriage, and George Flanigan, with whom she shared 17 years of marriage. She was also preceded in death by her father, Sam K. Minton, her step-father, Lewis Hodge, and her mother, Thelma Estell Hodge.

She is survived by her daughter, Rebecca “Becky” Holloway Emanuel and husband George Emanuel; her son, James Coleman Gordon Jr. and wife Janet Gordon; and her foster daughter, Florence Simmons and husband Seldon Simmons.

She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Dewey Holloway (Amanda), Timothy James Holloway (Stephanie), Jamie Lynn Gordon, James Coleman Gordon III, and BJ Simmons; along with two great-grandchildren, her brothers, Landrum Ezell Hodge and John A. Minton; her sister, Eloise H. Fleming; and many loving nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the hospice staff at Vitos of Daytona for lovingly caring for Estelle in her last days.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at 1:00 PM EST / 12:00 PM CST at the family cemetery located at: 19198 North East County Road 274 Altha, FL 32421; Rev. Jack A. Caldwell will officiate the service. Flowers may be sent to: 19198 North East County Road 274 Altha, FL 32421. The family appreciates your prayers, love, and support during this difficult time.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S. US HWY 441, Lake City, FL, 32025, 386-752-1954. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.