Freddie M. Rivers

Freddie McLeod Rivers, 70, of East Lansing, formerly of Benton Harbor departed this life Jan. 10, 2025.

A service celebrating his life will be Monday, Jan. 27, at the Brotherhood of all Nations COGIC, Benton Harbor. The visitation begins at 10 a.m. followed by the funeral at 11 a.m. Please visit www.robbinsbrothersfh.com to sign the guest book online.

Freddie was born on Jan. 29, 1954, in Benton Harbor to Sam and Rosie Rivers. He graduated from Benton Harbor High School in 1972 and joined the U.S. Navy and served during the Vietnam War.

After his time in the Navy, Freddie returned to Benton Harbor and married his high school sweetheart Patricia Faye Woods.

Freddie was previously employed by Auto Specialties, Alreco Steel and the Berrien County Juvenile Center. He cherished working with kids, building relationships with them and watching them turn their lives around.

Freddie furthered his education and earned a bachelor's degree from Siena Heights University.

Freddie is survived by his loving mother, Rosie M. Rivers; brother, Spencer Rivers; sister, Audranell Barker; brothers-in-law: Nathaniel Barker and Albert Burton; sisters-in-law: Geraldine Burton, Sharon Malone, Joyce Williams and Mattie Wells; son-in-law, Brian Shepard Jr.; daughter-in-law, Aeisha K.S. Rivers; seven grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews.

Freddie was preceded in death by his father, Sam Rivers; wife, Patricia Faye Rivers; brother, Eddie Rivers; brothers-in-law: Larry Henry Woods and Steven Duane Woods; father-in-law, JD Woods and mother-in-law, Evirgia (Woods) Wright.