Guy R Flora

Guy R Flora, age 89, of Cardington died Tuesday, February 25, 2025, peacefully at home. He was born on November 9, 1935, to the late Delbert and Romayne (Keyes) Flora in Muncie, Indiana. On September 14, 1956, Guy married the love of his life, Pat (Long) Flora in Cardington.

Following graduation from Ashland High School and Ashland College, Guy embarked on a 30 year career as an English and History teacher. "Mr. Flora", also known as "Coach Flora" to many, was much beloved by students for his knowledge, humor, and inspirational support. Guy taught and coached track and cross country at Plymouth High School, Mansfield-Madison High School, and Cardington-Lincoln High School. He retired from teaching to begin a new career in the sheep industry.

From humble beginnings raising a 4-H market lamb with his oldest son in 1968, Guy rose to become a state and national leader in the sheep industry. In 1980, together with friends Ken and Kathy Kark, Guy and his wife, Pat, created "Sheep and Farm Life", a magazine to support families in the sheep industry. Eventually, they owned and operated "The Shepherd" magazine, an internationally recognized sheep industry magazine, for 22 years.

Guy was an active member of the Ohio Sheep Improvement Association, President of the American Sheep Industry Association (the first sheep farmer from Ohio to attain that office), received Distinguished Service Awards from Wisconsin and Indiana Sheep Breeders Association, The Ohio Sheep Improvement Association's Friend of the Industry award, the ASI McClure Silver Ram Award, and in 2010 was inducted into the Ohio Agricultural Council Hall of Fame.

Guy and his wife, Pat, were always so thankful for those who mentored them when they were aspiring shepherds, and were lifelong supporters of 4-H, FFA, and local sheep breeders, as well as active supporters of the Richland and Morrow County Fairs.

More important to Guy than teaching, coaching, or sheep, was his family. He is survived by his four children: Guy (Karen) Flora of Columbus, Maureen Flora of Cardington, Charles (Mark) Flora of Pawtucket, RI, and Maggie (Kevin) Spangler of Columbus; one foster daughter, Ruth (Keith) Sexton of Ranger, Georgia; three grandchildren: Grayson (Helen Doepgen) Summers, and son Dyllon of Columbus, Kathryn Summers of Gahanna, and William (Marj Sovacool) Summers of Delaware; and two brothers: Jerry (Julie) Flora of Ashland, and John (Donna) Flora of Urbana.

In addition to his parents, Guy was preceded in death by his wife, Pat.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider Guy's favorite charities: the American Sheep Industry Guard Dog Fund or St. Jude's Research Hospital. If you wish to contribute close to home, consider a donation to your local library.

Those wishing to share a memory of Guy or to express condolences to the Flora family may do so by visiting www.gompffh.com.