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Josh & Skyla "R.I.P Best friend, the only real true best friend I ever had in my life. Josh, I never thought I would get that call that you had passed away. Gone too soon. Best friend, I really miss you and love you with all my heart. My heart aches every day for you. I can't believe you are still gone. I can't believe that this is true. Josh, I never got to say goodbye or got to see you one last time. I wish this wasn't true. You were the only one I could tell everything to. The one I could always count on when I needed someone. The only one that I could truly call my one and only true best friend I ever had in my life. Josh, I will forever remember the first day we met. All the amazing memories and moments we shared together. All the conversations, smiles, laughs, walks, and pictures we always had. You were the most caring, loving, sweet, kind-hearted guy I ever knew. You would give your life up for anyone because that's the kind of man you were. I will forever cherish every moment. Best friend, I honestly feel like a piece of me is missing without you because you were a part of me, and now that part of me is missing since the day you left. Josh, I'm beyond heartbroken and beyond missing you. I cry almost every day knowing you're gone. But heaven has gained another perfect angel, and that's you, my best friend. I will love you and miss you forever. You may be gone but never forgotten, best friend. Until we meet again, my best friend." 😭 R.I.P 2/5/22 Josh Baez Rest in peace, Best friend 😇 Shared on social media by Skyla Davis

🌵 Footage of Josh Arriving in Arizona in His 1996 Black Toyota Camry 🌵 Discovering this precious video clip from Josh's time in Arizona on May 12th, 2021. With unwavering determination, he set out from South Elgin, Illinois, driving his 1996 Toyota Camry, eager to carve his own path in life. The Camry, a true "Trooper," proved its worth, accompanying him as he bravely embraced new challenges and opportunities during his time away. It marked his first step towards independence and chasing his dreams. Little did we know, this journey would be bittersweet. As he began his new job and excitedly welcomed a fresh start, the car met with an unfortunate accident during his first training. The accident occured at the hands of someone he called friend, had become like a brother to him. This event set off a chain of challenges, leading him to experience hardships he had never faced before - homelessness, poverty, and struggles that were heart-wrenching for me, his mother, to witness from afar. It was a season of growth and learning for us both as I grappled with letting go and granting him the freedom to navigate life's complexities. The distance between us made it all the more challenging, but I held onto faith and love, knowing that Josh had the strength to overcome. "Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts." - Winston Churchill Yet, amidst the trials, there were glimmers of hope. Josh's resilience and unwavering spirit shone through, and by the grace of God, he returned home at the end of May. The time he spent with our family was a precious gift, and I cherish every moment we had together. Sadly, life's path is unpredictable, and after nine months, it was time for him to embark on his final journey - to his eternal home in heaven. My heart aches with sorrow, but I find comfort in knowing that he is at peace. Though Josh's time in Arizona was brief, the memories and lessons he left behind are everlasting. His impact on our lives is immeasurable. Josh's indomitable spirit and courage continue to inspire all who knew him. He will forever remain in our hearts, a brave soul who dared to pursue his dreams. Let us cherish his memory, celebrate his life, and find strength in the love he shared. 🕊️💕 May his spirit continue to guide us through life's trials. 🕊️💕 Psalm 116:15 - "Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his faithful servants." #InLovingMemory #ForeverInOurHearts #JoshEternalJourney #JoshLegacy #JoshBaez125 #CourageousSpirit #Arizona2021 #ToyotaCamry

How can I describe my first encounter and the final one with my son? It occurred in the middle of the night on February 20th, 2022, shortly after I had buried him that Saturday. In a single day, I experienced both the best and worst moments of my life: celebrating my son's life and laying him to rest. Even in the days leading up to his accident, I struggled to sleep, as if my spirit sensed what was coming. How could I possibly sleep? Especially now? Any moments of rest were not truly restful; my soul was in torment. Deep mourning, heavy grief. I never slept with a light on, but looking back, I feel there was some kind of light in the room. Even now, after three years, I remember this encounter vividly and in great detail. Joshua came to me. I was lying on my bed on my right side, as I usually do. Suddenly, I felt as though my spirit saw him lying on his left side right beside me, facing me. It was as if I could perceive this happening while my physical eyes couldn't see it. Both my body and soul were grieving deeply for him. As he lay beside me, I knew it was my son, Josh. However, he wasn't the same as when he passed away. He appeared as a higher, magnified, and glorified version of himself. He seemed to have matured into an older self, having aged in the two weeks since his earthly body failed. Being in the presence of Jesus, I realized that a remarkable transformation occurs. The knowledge and wisdom gained from the heavenly realm elevate you to a state of pure perfection. This is what I witnessed in my son during this encounter. He was still in his 20s, but a few years older. His features were more handsome, mature, and manly. I could truly feel his presence, the new Josh, and everything he had become. It is incredibly challenging to describe in words what can only be truly felt and experienced. As he lay there, I could see that he was also grieving. He was sorrowful. I sensed his wish to comfort me, to be present for me. I was certain that his sorrow wasn't due to his passing and leaving me behind. His sadness was for my sorrow. Later, the Holy Spirit reminded me of a scripture that confirmed what I had felt at that moment. It was when Jesus knew he would raise Lazarus from the dead, yet when he saw the sisters mourning, he felt their sorrow and began to grieve as well. But his grief was truly for them. The Holy Spirit gave me this insight, which aligned with my experience. The next thing I remember is him placing his hands on me and beginning to pray. He interceded deeply, speaking words I couldn't understand, in a language he had never used on earth before. It was a new heavenly language. As he spoke, I felt a power emanating from him, an impartation of sorts. I sensed he was preparing me for the rest of my journey, leaving me with a special blessing. I even felt a sense of protection from this moment. I knew it was meant to carry me forward. Living through this wouldn't be easy, and more suffering lay ahead. He knew it, he saw it, so he gave me this farewell gift before his official departure to heaven. Earlier that morning, when I was awake, and ever since, I've been praying to God to reveal the words Joshua spoke over me. I am still waiting for them to be disclosed. However, I feel confident and at peace with the understanding I gained during my last encounter with my son in his new heavenly form, shortly after I laid his earthly body to rest. "Though the words remain unspoken, the peace and protection they imparted remain with me, a testament to a love that never fades." It has taken three years to share this story. It means a lot to me and is something I will treasure throughout my life until I am reunited with him when my journey here concludes. By sharing, I hope to offer comfort, hope, encouragement, and peace to those who have experienced their own loss, including those who miss my son Joshua. If only I could show you what I witnessed when I was with him then! He is now beautifully perfect—whole, well, and safe. Thank You Holy Spirit for revealing this truth to me during my time of long suffering and grief. It has brought comfort to me. May it bring comfort to others. For this precious encounter, I am eternally grateful. Design by Joshua

Losing someone we love is one of the most challenging experiences we can go through in life. It leaves an indelible mark on our hearts and souls, shaping us in ways we never could have imagined. This platform serves as a tribute to Joshua Baez, a beloved individual whose life touched many others in profound ways. As we gather here to honor Joshua's memory, we are reminded of the power of community and the strength that can be found in coming together to share our stories. Through this platform, we have the opportunity to connect with others who have also experienced the loss of Joshua. By sharing our memories and reflections, we can find comfort in knowing that we are not alone on our healing journeys. Joshua Baez's life story is a testament to the impact that one person can have on those around them. Through sharing memories of his kindness, resilience, and spirit, a funny anecdote that brings a smile to our faces or a touching moment that brings tears to our eyes, each memory serves to preserve his legacy and keep his spirit alive in our hearts. In a world where time moves relentlessly forward, this platform provides a space where we can pause, reflect, and remember the moments that we shared with Joshua. Please join me in celebrating the life of my son, Joshua Baez—a son, grandson, nephew, cousin, brother, friend, and stranger... yet a soul who loved everyone and gave his all for another. Joshua had an extraordinary ability to connect with people, regardless of how well he knew them. He was a stranger to many, yet he treated everyone he encountered with kindness and compassion. His warm smile and infectious laughter could brighten the darkest of days, and his genuine interest in others made him a confidant to many. Joshua had a unique gift for making people feel valued and understood, often going out of his way to lend a helping hand or offer a listening ear. In every aspect of his life, Joshua exemplified what it meant to love unconditionally. He was the kind of person who would give his all for another, often putting the needs of others before his own. Whether it was through small acts of kindness or grand gestures of support, he consistently demonstrated a selflessness that inspired those around him. His spirit of generosity was evident in his willingness to volunteer his time, share his resources, and provide comfort to those in need. As we gather to honor his memory, let us reflect on the countless ways Joshua enriched our lives. Let us celebrate the joy he brought to our families, the laughter he shared with friends, and the love he spread throughout our communities. Though his time with us was far too brief, the impact he made will resonate in our hearts forever. Joshua Baez was a shining light in this world, and as we remember him, may we strive to carry forward his legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering support for one another. Welcome to "In Memory of Joshua". I am ready to join each of you on this unforeseen journey, united by our mutual love for Joshua. Blessings, Marcy Baez Lopez; his mother

Abstract Art A luminous wave of vibrant colors symbolizes the thin veil between realms, capturing the ethereal glow of a beloved spirit. In the middle of the night on February 20th, 2022, I had the most incredible encounter, my final true one with Joshua after we had just laid him to rest. Then, exactly three years later, on Thursday, February 20th, 2025, I experienced a second remarkable encounter. I had sent messages to several contacts, announcing the launch of the " In Memory of Joshua " website, which I had passionately and tirelessly created in honor of my son's life. Each encounter was unique and incomparable, standing out in its own right. As I lay in bed, reflecting on my day and finally achieving a three-year dream of launching the website, tears streamed down my face. My heart was heavy with loss, yet grateful for my accomplishment. Suddenly, I felt a presence—a warmth that enveloped me even as I wept. I believe it was my son, visiting for a brief moment, aware of what I had achieved. Heaven opened a window or a door for Josh to give me a hug. It wasn't just any hug; it was a warm, loving embrace where I sensed his gratitude and thankfulness. Yes, he was thanking me from heaven, although perhaps it's not so far away. It felt as if he was right here with me, just beyond a thin veil or opening. Joshua embraced me with a love that transcended time. The emotions I felt were unlike any I've experienced before. For a fleeting moment, I envisioned or sensed my son's spirit while holding him, but I could only see his back, similar to when you hug someone. I will treasure this moment until we meet again. Thank you, son, for visiting me and holding me during times when my heart was aching and my soul was crying; your presence brought immense comfort. And thank You, Father and Jesus, for sending him and making this encounter possible. 🙏 I pray to have more!

Remembering Joshua Through Music This Track was written and produced by Justice Deplume (Juan Lopez) Dedicated to Joshua 🙏 Another Track dedicated to Joshua CLOUDS (ғᴛ: ʟɪᴢᴇᴛᴛᴇ ʟᴏᴘᴇᴢ) (ᴘʀᴏᴅ ʙʏ. sᴏʟ ɢᴜᴇʀʀᴇʀᴏ) from BROKEN MIRRORS [REMASTERED] by ᴊᴜsᴛɪᴄᴇ ᴅᴇ ᴘʟᴜᴍᴇ https://justicedeplume.bandcamp.com/track/clouds-s-3

Slideshow of "Josh Was Here." Exactly one year ago today... February 18, 2024, when I was staying in Joshua's bedroom and organizing more of his things. He wanted to leave his mark in this world 🌎 and he sure did fulfill that. Here are the quotes handwritten by Josh on the index card shown in the slide: "Worry is like a rocking chair, it gives us something to do, but it doesn't get you anywhere." Ryan Reynolds "We consume our tomorrows, fretting about our yesterday." Persis Discovered this quote saved from my son Jøsh Baez on his broken laptop. Let those of us who remain keep this dear to our hearts ❤ “Memory is a way of holding onto the things you love, the things you are, and the things you never want to lose.”

Nehemiah Garcia (cousin) posted this on Facebook on February 8, 2022, three days after Joshua's passing. Joshua and Nehemiah (cousin) "For he was a light in this dark world. He showed everyone to keep spreading love and to do their best to help change the world. I will never get the chance to tell you, “Thank you,” for loving people no matter what and that I love you. I know we were just kids when we knew each other, but your life will forever change people’s and our families'. We all, and many more people, will forever love you and spread kindness to our families just like you would have wanted us to. We know you are in a better place and at peace. I wish we could’ve met again like you planned. I’m sorry for never reaching out; that’s something I may regret, but I know if I ever need to talk to you, I still can. ♥️🙏 You will always be with us, helping us and guiding us to God because you knew the meaning of life, and I will continue your mission on earth in spreading God's word and helping anyone who I can with God's help."

Publisher's Note: Joshua's Visitation took place on Friday, February 18, at Symonds-Madison Funeral Home in Elgin. These two poems are part of his writing collection. As I prepared for this day, I felt a strong urge to find them. That evening, I stood before those gathered and read them aloud. When my son wrote these words, he had no idea that nearly 7 years later, they would be selected and spoken just a few feet from his coffin. *I made slight edits to both and am searching for a title for the second poem. INTO THE WILD By: Joshua Baez Oct 14, 2015 I live a life of joy and happiness, I once thought. Prosperity and luxuries, That could give me a lot. Though dreams all these were, Now I see the reality. A bitter Earth... As cold and despair runs through my veins, I realize now this is all my own pain. Something you would call karma, Unfortunate in every way. Now my life ends and for once I will pray… UNTITLED By: Joshua Baez Oct 27, 2015 Once there was a wondrous bird that lived through the sky An olive colored condor unique as it flies People of old thought it as doctrine I don’t get why something so hideous was so idolizing The wonder of centuries Made into a forgotten apostle Don’t worry about the memories That novel is just another fossil As frosty as can be, this rhyme you just can’t believe In this office of mine I would’ve never made a dime As I’m about to travel time into a lozenge A capsule for time I swear I’ll bring solid proof that this bird is anything but a fairytale *Don't forget to share, like and comment. And if you have title ideas I am open to suggestions. I truly appreciate your time. Thank you. #Joshua #poetry #writings #collection #Oct2015 #Perryville #Maryland #joshforever23 #joshbaez #intothewild #birds #symondsmadison #funeralhome #funeral #coffin #life #death

"An angel in the book of life wrote down my baby's birth. And whispered as she closed the book, 'Too beautiful for Earth.'" - Unknown New Life Emerges Where have I been? It's been a while since my last blog post, and I want to take a moment to explain my absence. Life has a way of presenting us with unexpected challenges, and I experienced the unimaginable loss of my precious child, my beloved son Joshua. The grief and sorrow I have been grappling with have made it difficult for me to find the words to share with you. But today, I want to open up about my journey of healing, refocusing on living, and moving forward. Inside I feel there are many pieces to write, parts of myself that cries out to be heard, and my day to day life to share with you. And I struggle to do it. To sit with intention, allow myself to write freely and let the words simply flow from my fingertips. It's one year and five months today... since his heart stopped beating and his body failed him. The word "fail" hardly captures the magnitude of his tragedy. His body valiantly fought to stay alive, and had you seen the mangled car he was driving after the accident, from which the first responders extricated him, you would believe, even in the last 32 hours of his life, that he was undoubtedly a miracle. It has been one year and five months since he took his final breath. Having made one year almost feels final... but it isn't. Although I have completed it, I have also embarked upon a new season, a fresh chapter in my life, and continue along this path of grief and healing. I don't even know how I managed to get through this first year. Much of it is like a blur, and on the days when I could focus, I had to fight my way through, taking one more step, making it through one more minute, and facing one more day. The first year I was plagued with sleepless nights... each morning and night felt unbearably difficult. They served as constant reminders of my new reality, a life without Josh. Who in this world wants to wake up to that painful reality? And who, in this lifetime, would want to close their eyes, knowing the agony they would have to relive again? Tormented to the core of my being, I cannot deny that thoughts of death consumed me. I battled fiercely against these suicidal thoughts, knowing that I have other children, a loving husband, and many others in my life who still need me. Even Josh... he left behind a gift of all those he loved and cared for, who have now become a part of my life as well. But there were countless moments when none of this felt like enough. The pain ran so deep, so raw... I simply wished for it all to disappear, for this painful reality to cease to exist. How did I survive this? One word...Jesus. Without my faith in Christ, I would be dead. I would be lost. I would have gone mad. Utterly consumed by despair. From the moment the officers knocked on my door and escorted me to the hospital, throughout the agonizing hours, days, weeks, and months that followed, Jesus was an ever-present force. He became my anchor, my comfort, and unwavering strength beyond my own capabilities. An indescribable peace that is unmatched with this world's definition of peace. I learned in my tragedy, as I walk in my grief... I have come to realize that I can endure the loss of everything in this life, absolutely everything, and still find the drive to carry on. Yet, there is one thing I know I cannot survive without, and that is Jesus. He has become my all-encompassing presence, the very purpose that fuels my existence. In my brokenness, in the rawness of who I am, I find solace in knowing that He understands, He observes, and He walks beside me through it all. Even to this day, some of my days remain unmanageable, disordered and messy. Waves crash over me, leaving me barely able to stand, and enveloping me in a profound numbness. Why am I opening up about this? Why am I choosing to share these intimate struggles? I recognize that expressing my experiences through writing is a form of healing, and my hope is to connect with others who know grief, who can relate with me on any level from sharing my journey, as I travel along this path. This world teems with billions of souls. Currently, it is estimated that there are 8 billion people inhabiting this planet. 8 billion! Despite this vast number, I have experienced firsthand what it means to feel utterly alone, as if no one comprehends or can empathize with the immense anguish, sorrow, and torment that consumes you. A year plus later, I can't tell you that the pain is gone, the sorrow has lessened and the grief has turned into joy. Because I'd be lying. The pain remains but it isn't as intense and comes in days sometimes lasting several hours... the sorrow too doesn't feel as long when it's there though the ache can feel as it did in the early months at times. And most certainly my grief hasn't turned into joy but I do feel joy again and I do experience multiple emotions at one time such as happiness and sadness, peace and despair, anger and love. If you have encountered grief, you understand its rawness, unpredictable and its capricious nature. Throughout any given day, I have been confronted with surreal moments. Is this really happening? Is he really not coming home and walking through those doors? Where is he? Why isn't he here? Why is he gone? Can this be true? We often refer to this state as "the fog," for when enveloped by it, it feels as though we exist in another realm. It creates an illusion that our loved one is nearby, so close, yet deep down we know it is not so. It's as if we are forced to relive the loss repeatedly, enduring the anguish over and over again. No one can ever prepare themselves for this. No amount of support, faith, or community can equip us to triumph over grief. Grief simply exists. It must be felt. It must be experienced. Grief demands to be traversed and confronted head-on. There are no shortcuts or detours on this arduous path. The valley leads to the mountain and that mountain we must climb. Does our support system - family, friends, faith, and community - have a place as we navigate through this valley? Absolutely! I am writing today to express my gratitude for the unwavering support and sense of community I have experienced. From the moment I entered the waiting room, time seemed to pass by, but I was enveloped by an overwhelming amount of support from people all around the world. Even strangers reached out to me, and individuals from various communities that knew Josh, connected with me. Additionally, I have clung tightly to my faith, as it has been an integral part of my survival amidst the pain of my loss. Without any of these pillars of support, I cannot fathom how I would have made it through. But in this valley of grief, it is Jesus who walks beside us, guiding us through the shadows and leading us towards the mountain ahead. He accompanies us every step of the way, navigating the treacherous terrain until we eventually ascend and conquer the summit. With His unwavering presence, He steers us on this journey until we reach our ultimate destination. I pray you find comfort in the bible verses below as I have. Isaiah 41:10 (NIV): "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Psalm 23:4 (NIV): "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." Psalm 61:2 (NIV): "From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I." Burial Place of Joshua Baez Visiting his grave today at Bluff City Cemetery Joshua's Resting Place No Headstone... Praying for one to mark his grave. I want others to know whose body lies here, my son... Joshua Baez (1998-2022). #ChildLossJourney #RememberingJoshua #OneYearAnniversary #GoneButNeverForgotten #HealingThroughGrief #LoveTranscendsTime #HonoringMyChild #ForeverInOurHearts #LifeAfterLoss #FindingStrength #CherishedMemories #SupportInGrief #Faith #Jesus #ChristianBlogger #Psalm61v2 #Psalm23v4 #Isaiah41v10 #BluffCityCemetery #SouthElginIl #ElginIl

No matter how long the winter, spring is sure to follow." - African Proverb (click image to access source) I have not yet reached my spring; it is still winter. The days are cold, dark, and wet, but amidst this bleakness, there are fleeting moments of sunshine and warmth. I see signs of life emerging as this dreadful season nears its end. The days remain shorter, but slowly time extends. I hear the whispers of a new morning, a new day, as I wait in silence—sometimes in gut wrenching screams, no one hears... but me. In this silence, I wait, clinging tightly to my faith. For trust is all I know, even though all seems lost. Yet within the rubble of destruction, remnants of hope lie buried—it is my shelter. It is what strengthens me. My only comfort. Winter will have its end, and where it meets my spring, I will be reborn anew. I will rise again, higher and more beautiful than ever before. My roots deepened beneath the surface, connecting with sources too distant to reach if not for... the bitterest of seasons. Who I was, what I was—none of it compares to who I will become in my spring. Will you see it? Will your eyes bear witness to the Creator's masterpiece in motion? Nothing is wasted; every experience will serve His ultimate purpose. In every season—whether winter or spring—His glory is revealed, found, seen, and experienced. In the finishing work, all is... as it was... meant to be. In silence, I will wait. I am waiting for my spring. By Marcy Baez Lopez 9 April 2024 Special Note: 2nd year anniversary of the day I saw the wreckage of late son, Josh's mangled car #poetry #seasons #losses #faith #hope