Lourdes Iolani Aviles

Lourdes Iolani Aviles, a dedicated police officer for 29 years, passed away on July 30th, 2024 in Columbus, Georgia. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held on Friday, August 16, 2024 at 4:00 PM at Striffler Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia 31907.

She was born on May 2, 1962 in the beautiful state of Hawaii to her late parents Emilio Rivera-Aviles and Noelia Morales Aviles. She grew up in Southside Columbus on Benning Rd and Albion Way. Lourdes was a proud graduate of Baker High School Class of 1980, where she lettered in softball and continued playing with FOP for many years. There was no mistaking her Puerto Rican heritage and Southside upbringing. Lourdes will be deeply missed by her loving family and friends who were touched by her kindness, loyalty, and love.

During her nearly three decades of service in law enforcement, Lourdes exemplified courage and compassion. Her commitment to protecting others was unwavering and she approached each day with a sense of duty that inspired those around her. Lourdes's dedication to serving others extended beyond the uniform—she had an innate ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Her colleagues remember her as a mentor and friend who always put the needs of others before herself. In addition to being a devoted public servant, Lourdes was also known for her passion for Auburn football. Whether cheering on the team from home or attending games with loved ones by her side, she found joy in every touchdown and victory. Her enthusiasm for sports brought laughter and camaraderie into countless gatherings over the years. Lourdes's was one whose love for animals knew no bounds—her heart overflowed with tenderness towards all creatures great and small. She welcomed pets into her home with open arms throughout the years, creating cherished memories filled with wagging tails and gentle purrs.

Above all else, Lourdes will be remembered for the warmth she exuded wherever she went. Her kind-hearted nature left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to have crossed paths with her. She possessed an extraordinary ability to comfort those in need while offering unwavering support during times of hardship. The loss of Lourdes has left an irreplaceable void in our lives—a void that can only be filled by treasuring the memories we hold dear within our hearts. Though she may no longer walk among us physically, Lourdes's spirit will continue to shine brightly through those whose lives she touched so profoundly. As we mourn this profound loss together as a community united by love for Lourdes Aviles—a remarkable woman whose legacy will endure through generations—we find solace in knowing that she is at peace alongside cherished loved ones who have gone before us.

Lourdes is preceded in death by her parents, Emilio Rivera-Aviles and Noelia Morales Aviles and her sister, Carmen Aviles Massey. She is survived by her brother, Nelson Aviles; uncle, Luis Morales; and nephew, Marcus Massey.

May we honor Lourdes's memory by carrying forward the values she held dear: compassion without limits; strength rooted in empathy; devotion that knows no boundaries; love that transcends time itself. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Paws Humane Society at https://pawshumane.org/ or Animal Ark Rescue at https://checkout.shelterluv.com/donate/ark.