Mexico City—Edna Lee de Gutiérrez, president of the Baptist World Alliance Women’s Department from 1985-90 and vice president of the BWA from 1990-95, died Oct. 5.

“The BWA is greatly indebted to many gifted women around the world whose leadership among us has been a source of great inspiration,” said Neville Callam, BWA General Secretary. “Edna Lee de Gutiérrez falls in this tradition.”

Gutiérrez was involved in Baptist work in Latin America throughout her life. She served as president of the Mexican Baptist Youth Union, the Nicaraguan Baptist Convention and the Baptist Women’s Union of Latin America.

She was active in ministry in the local church. Her husband, Rolando Gutiérrez, a Nicaraguan, was pastor of churches in Managua, Nicaragua and Mexico City. Upon returning to her native country of Mexico after 10 years in Nicaragua, the couple wanted to begin a ministry for youth and found a small church of 30 members to sponsor the ministry. Horeb Baptist Church in Mexico City grew into a strong church with many educational programs.

“Edna was an outstanding leader,” said Patsy Davis, director of the BWAWD. “She will be remembered for her great accomplishments during her five years as president of the BWA Women’s Department, as well as her passion, self-sacrifice, and example.”

In addition to her service as a BWA officer, Gutiérrez was a member of the BWA General Council, the Executive Committee and the Church Leadership Commission.

Gutiérrez is survived by three children. Her memorial service and burial took place Oct. 6 in Mexico City.