Our community endures a tremendous loss with the peaceful passing of Rev. Dr. Ramon Luis Nieves, Jr. on the evening of Thursday, January 16, 2014 in Chicago, Illinois. His loving family was by his side. Rev. Nieves’ last days were a reflection of his life: serving God as part of a mission trip to Escuintla, Guatemala.

While in Guatemala, he and his wife, Yolanda, trained over 180 teachers. The many children and families who will be impacted by the knowledge and experience shared during their time in Guatemala only enhances a profound legacy of community service.

Rev. Nieves was born and raised in the Chicago’s Humboldt Park community where he served as the minister of Humboldt Park United Methodist Church for nearly four years. He was also involved in many alliances and coalitions in the community and served on the Board of Directors of Center for Changing Lives. He was a tireless advocate for social justice and a leader on many issues. Recently, he and his congregation led a Posada for Public and Affordable Housing at Lathrop Homes with the Logan Square Ecumenical Alliance.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Yolanda Nieves, his daughters Yvonne (30), Laura (26), and son Vicente (21), his mother Virgilia Nieves, and five siblings. He is preceded in death by his father, Rev. Ramon L. Nieves, Sr.

The family has expressed their deepest gratitude to the many congregations and individuals who supported his return to the city that he loved by contributing funds toward the cost of the air ambulance service from Guatemala. Additional information on Rev. Nieves’ homecoming and celebration of his life will be provided as they are made available.