She Captured Our Hearts

Esther Rivas was called home to be with the Lord. For eight intense weeks, she faced an incredibly courageous battle in the ICU. Her journey to her third heart transplant was a testament to her endurance, taking us from Indianapolis, where she initially wasn't eligible, to Tennessee, where, by what we believe was God’s providence, she eventually became eligible for the transplant. Through this immensely challenging earthly trial, her strength and spirit, rooted in her trust in Christ, were and continue to be an inspiration to me.

Losing Esther has left an irreplaceable void in my life and in the lives of our two wonderful children, Herbert Jr. (12) and Josari (11). She was the vibrant heart of our family, an incredible mother, and my cherished best friend. While we grieve her absence deeply, our family finds comfort in the Christian hope that we do not grieve without hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13), knowing she is now free from suffering and at peace with our Savior. The thought of navigating the future without her is daunting, but we lean on the Lord for strength.

Esther touched so many lives with her kindness, warmth, and what we knew as the light of Christ that shone through her. The outpouring of love we’ve received from so many people has been a comforting earthly reminder of her beautiful impact. It’s clear that many in our community, and beyond, from all walks of life, wish to find ways to support our family during this time.

As I focus on shepherding Herbert Jr. and Josari through their grief, teaching them about God's unfailing love even in loss, and adjusting to life without my precious wife, many have prayerfully and kindly asked how they can help with funeral expenses and the kids.

This GoFundMe offers a way for those who feel led to contribute to honoring Esther's memory with a beautiful farewell that for us, will glorify God. Any support received will be stewarded faithfully, dedicated to their well-being, their upbringing and education, and ensuring they have the opportunities Esther always dreamed for them as they grow. It would allow us to provide them with stability and support as we trust in what we believe is God’s plan for our family.

I am so deeply grateful for the prayers, the comforting words of Scripture that have sustained us, and the tangible support that have already surrounded our family. Every gesture, big or small, is a blessing and reflects profound kindness and what we recognize as God's provision. Thank you for keeping Esther’s memory alive, for your prayers and good wishes for our children’s future, and for considering how you might support us. Sharing this page would also be a wonderful way to help extend this circle of care.