Amparo Nieves

The Beginning – Amparo Nieves, affectionately known as “Mama,” was born October 30, 1940, to Gregorio Rivera and Genoveva Sein in Hatillo, Puerto Rico. She was the eldest child of eight siblings. Amparo was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years, Carmelo Nieves, and her brothers: Reinaldo, Ambrosio, and Felipe. Amparo had a strong sense of family growing up, a love of family that she passed on.

Her Early Years – Amparo worked hard on the family farm and assisted in helping raise her siblings. Wanting a better life for her daughter, Genoveva sent Amparo away to Connecticut at the prime age of fifteen in hopes that she would forge a better life for herself.

Her Blessings – After spending some time in Connecticut navigating new surroundings and the English language, Amparo transitioned to Chicago to live with her paternal uncle Carmelo, his wife Aida, and their two daughters of younger age. It is in Chicago that Amparo met Carmelo and was united in Holy Matrimony in 1960. “Papa” & “Mama” were married for fifty-nine years. They reared three children: Daniel Nieves, Patricia Lopez, and Rebeca Nieves Huffman.

Her Calling - Amparo accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior in 1969 at Iglesia de Dios Mission Board in the town of Toa Baja, Puerto Rico. Amparo felt the pull to work with and pour into the women’s ministry of their home church in Chicago. Organizing women’s conferences, teaching various bible classes, and serving as a servant leader is how she impacted the lives of so many around her.

Her Life’s Work – Amparo was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and sister. She dedicated her time to her family and home lending support to Carmelo who was an entrepreneur. Amparo was always on the hunt for a great bargain, a consummate seamstress, and excellent cook. All gifts she shared with family, friends, church, and the community.

Her Rest - Amparo headed home to her heavenly Father on Friday, February 9, 2024, at Sanctuary by Strive Memory Care Facility, Apopka, Florida.

Her Family - She leaves to cherish her memory, Daniel (Glenda) Nieves of Houston, TX, Patricia (Fernando) Lopez of Orlando, FL, Rebeca (Craig) Huffman of Chicago, IL. Her brothers Rafael, Luis, Chavelo, and Gregorio Rivera; eight grandchildren; six great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

A funeral service for Amparo will be held Saturday, February 24, 2024 from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM at CIF Church, 2008 N. Goldenrod, Orlando, FL 32807. Following the funeral service will be a graveside service from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM at All Faiths Memorial Park, 1390 PARK DR, CASSELBERRY, FL 32707.