Beloved Branford Restaurant Owner Dies, Mourned By Many

BRANFORD, CT — Gail Flores, long-time owner of Jalapeño Heaven, died on Tuesday, and she is being mourned by friends, family, and patrons of the eatery.

The restaurant was closed on Tuesday but is reopening Wednesday.

"It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Gail, owner of Jalapeño Heaven, early (Tuesday) morning," the restaurant posted in a social media post. "During this difficult time, we ask that you please keep Gail’s family, friends, and our staff in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this tremendous loss. Gail touched the lives of so many through her kindness, generosity, and the welcoming spirit she brought to Jalapeño Heaven each day. She will be deeply missed."

One person wrote on social media, "Gail has always been a secret hero in Branford. She stayed true to her restaurant profession, true to her customers and employees. She supported Branford Hospice CT events over 20 years ago. And all I had to do was ask for her support!"

Another person wrote, "This is so sad! She made all her customers feel like family, she'll definitely be missed. My thoughts are with Hector and the family and crew. May Gail's memory be for a blessing."

Jalapeño Heaven is an authentic Mexican restaurant and lounge that first opened its doors in Branford in May of 1992.

The restaurant was founded by husband and wife Hector and Gail Flores, "whose journey to opening Jalapeño Heaven is a story of hard work, family, and passion," according to the eatery's website.

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Gail and Hector met while working at a Florida restaurant, and they married and moved back to Branford in 1985. And in 1992, their dreams of opening a restaurant came to fruition.

"Today, Jalapeño Heaven continues to honor the vision Hector and Gail had when they first opened the doors — sharing authentic Mexican food, warm hospitality, and a little taste of Mexico right here in Connecticut," according to the restaurant's website.