Conception Zapata-Alvarez

In loving memory of Conception “Connie” Zapata-Alvarez, we celebrate the beautiful life she led, and the impact made on those around her. Born in Spanish Harlem, New York, to Rita and Martin Bettencourt Sierra, Connie was a woman of many talents and passions.

Connie’s love of fashion led her to attend the Fashion Institute of Technology of New York and pursue a career as a designer, where she showcased her creativity and eye for detail. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Connie’s true joy came from the simple pleasures of life. She found solace in the pages of a good book, nurtured the beauty of nature through her gardening, and delighted in the melodies of birds that graced her presence. Her love for power tools and painting brought out her artistic side as she poured her heart into creating beautiful birdhouses and other cherished pieces.

Connie’s love extended beyond her creative pursuits. She was a devoted wife to her husband, Raymond Alvarez, for 44 years. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. She was a loving mother to her daughters, Laura Heckmann (Jerry) and Christina Sussman (Jamey), and her sons, Nestor Zapata, Michael Zapata (Jan), and Raymond Anthony Alvarez (Laura). Her legacy also lives on through her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were blessed to have her as a guiding light in their lives.

As we gather to honor Connie’s memory, we invite you to join us for a memorial service on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at her residence. Let us come together to celebrate the life of a remarkable woman who touched our hearts. Following the service, we will share refreshments as we reminisce about the beautiful moments we shared with Connie. In this time of loss, let us remember Connie Zapata-Alvarez as a woman who embraced life with passion, creativity, and love. May her spirit continue to inspire us to live each day to the fullest and to cherish the beauty that surrounds us.

Private cremation has been entrusted to the Joseph J. Pula Funeral Home, Inc., where Connie will be laid to rest with the dignity and respect she deserves. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Alzheimer’s Association by visiting www.act.alz.org.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Conception Zapata-Alvarez, please visit our floral store.