Obituaries

It is with a heavy heart to share that Raymond “Ray” Rivera, 63, passed away on Saturday, October 7, 2023.

Ray wore many titles: brother, son, husband, friend, fighter, bargainer, and most notably – father. He loved his children more than he loved himself. Many nights after dinner, he would treat his children to a big premium dessert. These treats included his famous ice-cold chocolate milk, and Coca-Cola floats piled with ice cream. He always wanted his children to know just how much he loved them through acts of kindness and gifts.

As a father who did not have the best upbringing, he had a soft spot for children who did not have the best parents. Oftentimes, Ray would take on the role of a father to the friends of his children; many of them even referred to him as “Daddy Ray.” Ray believed everyone deserved love.

Ray loved his wife, Lisa, dearly and knew they were soulmates since they met at the pool in their shared apartment building in Las Vegas. The two tied the knot on December 31, 1990, and have been inseparable ever since. When Lisa began to have mobility issues, Ray always ensured Lisa stayed comfortable by assisting with her needs and reducing her workload around the house. He cherished her more than anything else on this planet.

Ray loved his children’s dogs as if they were his grandchildren. Although not always the best decision, he would sneak whatever he was eating to them, and buy them treats for whenever they would come to visit. He never had a dog of his own and wanted to spoil the only animals in his life.

Anyone who knew Ray knew he was a fiend for a good deal on top-quality products. Ray had a talent for finding the best prices and was known to pass this knowledge along to anyone who wanted to know his bargaining secrets. He was known to give advice to random people in the grocery store to ensure they got the most out of their hard-earned money. Ray was also known to give to those who were in need, even if that meant he had to go without.

Ray lost the battle of liver and kidney failure but fought hard for his life. It didn’t matter how many times he was knocked down because he always got back up to be there for his family. His family wishes to extend a special thanks to the dedicated staff of the Carillion Roanoke Memorial Hospital and SOVAH Health. Ray’s family will miss him dearly but know they will be reunited one day.

Ray was preceded in death by his mom, Nancy, and his dad, Raymond. He is survived by his wife, Lisa Rivera, and his children, Michael Rivera, Christopher Rivera, and Lena Rivera.

Wright Funeral Service & Crematory is serving the family.