Obituary of Pura M Tavarez

Pura Minerva Tavarez, age 86 of Haverstraw, passed away on Monday, January 4, 2016. She was born in Nigua, Tamboril, Dominican Republic to the late Samuel Dominguez and Maria Escolastica Dominguez on May 12, 1929. As a young woman, Pura forged the way for her family by moving to Manhattan, N.Y. and worked diligently to ensure their safe arrival in this country. She was married to Cesar S. Tavarez on February 14, 1953 at St. Mary's Church in Haverstraw, N.Y. They were happily married for 48 years until his passing in 2001. Together they raised four children and welcomed seven grandchildren. Caring for family and friends was her love and joy. She welcomed all to her home with a warm and open heart. With the help of her kitchen, she could feed your body and revive your soul. Her smile could brighten your day and her infectious laugh could swell your eyes with happy tears while filling a room with joy. Her nurturing and compassionate spirit always put the needs of others before her own. She made a difference in the lives of many leaving a footprint in this world and an echo in our hearts. We were blessed to learn many valuable lessons from Pura during her 86 years, among them: Never leave home without a dash of color on your lips and a snack in your purse because, well, you just never know. Vicks vapor rub can truly heal all ailments. A well fashioned hat can not only make a statement, but also keep away the common cold. Most importantly, through life's challenges we discovered who she was; a resilient soul with unwavering strength and spirit. We can only hope to continue her legacy and share the abundance of love she gave. Pura was predeceased by her loving parents Samuel and Maria Escolastica, her beloved husband Cesar, her brothers: Felipe Dominguez, Rafael Dominguez, Juan Dominguez and her sister Irene Blanco. She is survived by her brother: Fines Dominguez, her sisters: Altagracia (Chea) Dominguez, Elia Cruz, Yolanda Noyes, Yomaris Dominguez; her devoted children: Dora Salvatore, Lourdes Vila, Cesar Tavarez, Ricardo Tavarez, her seven grandchildren: Cesar Jr., Christopher, Stacy, Nicole, Marissa, Ricardo Jr., Vivian; and her three great grandchildren: Amiah, Cesar IV and Cypress. Pura's life will be honored and remembered during visitation to be held at T.J. McGowan Sons Funeral Home, 133 Broadway Haverstraw, N.Y. 10927 on Thursday, January 7, 2016, between the hours of 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m - 9:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be held at Saint Peters Church, 115 Broadway, Haverstraw, N.Y. 10927 on Friday, January 8, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. Following the mass Interment will be at St Peters Cemetery in Haverstraw, N.Y. She will be missed by those she loved and those who loved her. She will forever live in the hearts she left behind.