It is with heavy hearts and profound respect that we announce the passing of our beloved matriarch, Confesora Alvarez Baez, who departed this life on March 29, 2026, at the age of 88.

Born on August 1, 1937, in the vibrant town of Yauco, Puerto Rico. Confesora's life was a testament to resilience, love, and unwavering faith. After several months battling health issues, she slipped away peacefully in the comfort of her home, surrounded by the family she cherished above all else.

Confesora was a cherished daughter of Antonio Baez and Maria Ramos. She grew up alongside one brother and six sisters, leaving her with memories of a shared childhood filled with warmth and laughter. In 1959, she married the love of her life, Edelmiro Alvarez, and together they embarked on a new chapter in Chicago, Illinois. Their journey was filled with dreams and aspirations, but it was tragically cut short when Confesora lost Edelmiro after just nine years of marriage. Despite this profound loss, she remained a devoted mother and nurtured her family with boundless love and strength and never remarried.

Confesora's legacy lives on through her cherished children: Leonora (Rev. Concepción), Hermes (partner Shani), Tito (Mayra), and Nilza (Walter). Her role as a nurturing and supportive mother was a cornerstone of her life. She was further blessed with ten grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, each of whom carried a piece of her heart. Confesora's home was a haven, not only for her family but for the many church missionaries, pastors, and Christian group singers who found hospitality and warmth under her roof at home and as a business owner of the West Liberty Motel for several years.

A woman of remarkable qualities, Confesora was known for her amazing culinary talents, especially when cooking for her family and friends. Food was her love language. She delighted in hosting gatherings and was never one to shy away from a game of dominoes, where her competitive spirit shone through. Her love for Christian music, singing, and the memorization of scriptures was a testament to her faith and joy in life. Dining out at her favorite restaurants, including Golden Corral, Pizza Ranch, and various Chinese eateries, was a simple pleasure she relished.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate teams at UIHC and Unity Point Hospice for the incredible care provided during her final weeks and days.

In honor of Confesora Alvarez Baez, we celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be remembered for her kindness, her unwavering faith, and the love she bestowed upon her family and community. May her soul rest in eternal peace in the arms of her loving Savior, Jesus Christ.

Confesora's life will be celebrated in a service held on March 31, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., at the Independent Pentecostal Christian Church, 711 East 4th Street, West Liberty, IA 52776.  The burial at Oak Ridge Cemetery in West Liberty, IA will follow the Celebration of Life service, early in the afternoon.