Dr. Mark Robert Flora

1951 - 2018

DR. MARK ROBERT FLORA Dr. Mark Robert Flora, age 66, of Hampstead, passed away on October 10, 2018 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center. Mark was born on November 2, 1951, in Decatur, Illinois, to the late Dr. Walter and Suzanne Flora - in the midst of a winter snowstorm! He was raised in Decatur, completed undergraduate studies at Western Illinois University, and graduated from Southern College of Optometry, Memphis, Tennessee in 1975. Dr. Flora's passion for optometry spanned 42 years and three states. After obtaining his degree, he served as Assistant Professor at Southern College of Optometry, Chief of Eye Services and Director of Residency at Memphis Health Center. Dr. Flora practiced in Memphis, San Jose (CA), Charlotte and Rocky Mount (NC), before finally settling in Hampstead in 2001. He was a member of the American Optometric Association and the North Carolina Optometric Association. Dr. Flora was devoted to providing medical eye care to his beloved patients on a day to day basis, and was also known for his volunteer service with the Lion's Club and local clinics. Mark's final legacy was the donation of his corneas so that someone in need would have the gift of sight. Mark is survived by his wife Rebecca Flora, son Trader Flora, brother Dr. Walt Flora (Kathy) of Tampa, sisters Janne Flora of San Diego, Jill Flora Lacert (Bill) of Longmont, Colorado, a myriad of nieces and nephews, Kate Davidson ("the best girl Trader ever brought home") and his "mostly good" dog Addie. Mark's joy in life was his family. His proudest accomplishment was his son Trader, who amazed and impressed him at every stage of his life. The best moments of Mark's life were spent watching his son's hundreds of baseball games and reveling in Trader's personal and academic successes. Rebecca and Trader wish to thank the staff of Atlantic Eye Associates and Mark's colleagues in the medical community for their support during this difficult time. Heartfelt thanks also go out to the staff at New Hanover Regional Medical Center CCU, especially Nikki and Missy. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 13 at 2:00 pm at Wesleyan Chapel United Methodist Church, 10255 U.S. Highway 17, Wilmington (Scotts Hill). In lieu of flowers, Dr. Flora would want donations to the Hampstead Lions Club, P.O. Box 231, Hampstead, NC. 28443. Please share memories and condolences with the family at www.wilmingtoncares.com. Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, 16076 US Hwy 17 N Hampstead, NC 28443 910-821-1713.