Flora Baxter

Name: Visitation
Start: 02/14/2025 03:00 PM
End: 02/14/2025 08:00 PM
Location: Cumberland Chapels

December 31, 1969 — February 8, 2025

Flora R. Baxter (née Riggio), age 77, passed away peacefully after a long and valiant battle with cancer on February 8, 2025. Born on October 28, 1947, in Motta San Giovanni, Italy, to the late Giovanni and Santa (née Pansera) Riggio, Flora immigrated to the United States with her family in 1956. Petite and elegant, yet strong and passionate, Flora touched the lives of all who knew her. She was known for her unwavering principles and zest for life, lighting up every room she entered with her infectious joy. Her remarkable ability to stand firm in her values while embracing life's celebrations made her a cherished presence at any gathering. Flora found her greatest peace at Surfside Beach, South Carolina, where she would unwind with her friends and a signature Rob Roy cocktail while Elvis Presley's music played in the background. She took special delight in watching cardinals, believing they brought messages of love from heaven. She was the beloved wife of the late John Douglas Baxter Sr. and loving mother of David Baxter, Robert “Bobby” (Vasiliki “Vivian") Baxter, and the late John Douglas "Doug" Baxter Jr. She was the cherished Nonna of Jeremy, John Robert "Yianni," and Lia. Flora is also survived by her dear siblings: D. Mimi (James) Boysen, Francesco (Susan) Riggio, Santo (Gina) Riggio, Luigi (Debbie) Riggio, and Marianne (Allen) Menacker. She was a fond aunt to many nieces and nephews. We will miss your beautiful smile, your feistiness, and your sage advice.

Visitation for Flora will take place on Friday, February 14, 2025 from 3:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Cumberland Chapels 8300 W. Lawrence Ave. Norridge, Il. Funeral Saturday, beginning at the funeral home at 9:00 am and then proceed to Queen of Peace Parish at St. Eugene Church for 10:00 am Mass. Interment will follow at Mt. Emblem Cemetery in Elmhurst, Illinois.