April 30, 1938 – May 1, 2025

Carmen Hieber, a kind and generous soul whose love and compassion touched everyone she met, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2025, surrounded by the deep love of her family. She was 87 years and one day old.

Born on April 30, 1938, in San Sebastián, Puerto Rico, Carmen was the cherished daughter of Justo Valle and Juana Lassus. She lived a life defined by quiet strength, grace, and a heart full of unconditional love. A gifted hairdresser, a talented cook, a patient Spanish tutor, and a devoted wife and mother — Carmen gave freely of herself to everyone around her. Her empathy was boundless. “Siéntate aquí y cuéntame qué te pasó,” she would often say — “Sit here and tell me what happened.” She listened without judgment, cared without condition, and prayed daily for the well-being of others, often going through a long list of names one by one.

Carmen’s greatest joy was her family. She raised her sons, Walter and David, with boundless love, quiet faith, and an unwavering belief in their potential. To them, she was their biggest fan — “¡Campeón!” she’d cheer — their guiding light, and their constant comfort. She was funny, patient, and giving — always more concerned with others' happiness than her own.

Her courage was immense. In the early years of her marriage, she left her home in Puerto Rico and moved to the deserts of Arizona to raise her family — her husband and two babies, and a lot of rattlesnakes. With just one year of college, a beautician’s certificate, and deep faith in God, Carmen built a life rooted in resilience, love, and quiet heroism. In the early 1980s, the family moved to Florida, where she lived the remainder of her life.

Carmen is survived by her devoted husband, Paul Hieber, and her sons, Walter C. Hieber and David C. Hieber. Her memory will live on in the countless lives she touched, the meals she lovingly prepared, the prayers she whispered for others, and the joy she so freely gave.

A celebration of her life will be held at Cypress Ridge Presbyterian Church on Saturday May 17th, 2025 at 2PM EST, with Pastor Rodney Barton officiating. All who knew Carmen — friends, family, clients, and neighbors — are invited to join in remembering a truly beautiful soul.

Cypress Ridge Presbyterian Church Address is : 6230 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven, FL 33884