Dexter Bernard Rivers

Dexter Bernard "Dex" Rivers passed away unexpectedly on July 14, 2025, i n Sanford, Florida, at the age of 39. Dexter is survived by his mother, Melanie Dawkins of Sanford, Florida; his beloved wife, Sarah Rivers of Sanford; and their two children, Dexter "Lil Dex" Da Sequel Rivers and Zuri Danielle Rivers, also of Sanford. He is survived by his siblings: James Rivers (wife: Doria Rivers) of Sanford; Herschel Rivers of Sanford; Melanie Rivers of Sanford; Mitchell Dawkins (wife: Breanna Dawkins) of Michigan; Sade Ross (husband: Javorrye Ross) of Deltona, Florida; Shandy Dawkins (husband: Xavier Shannon) of Gainesville, Florida; Caleb Dawkins of Chicago, Illinois; and Joshua Dawkins (wife: Angel Dawkins) of Orlando, Florida. HIs special cousins: Mykal Kilgore (husband: Nathan) of New York. Alysha Graham (husband: Mike) of Orlando, Florida. He was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Mitchell L. Dawkins Sr., of Winter Park, Florida. Dexter was born on May 12, 1986, in Jacksonville, North Carolina, to Melanie Dawkins (Rivers). He graduated from Lyman High School in 2004 and went on to study Political Science. In 2004, Dexter joined the United States Marine Corps (USMC). While serving in Afghanistan in 2009, he met Sarah Johnson, who would become the love of his life. They married in 2011 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Dexter was a true entrepreneur, working a cross real estate investing, technology, and business, always exploring new opportunities. Together, he and Sarah welcomed two children, whom he loved deeply. His children remember him as a fun, supportive, and loving father who encouraged them to chase their dreams. He was accomplished in photography, comedy, and boxing, and he was always dreaming up new ventures. Dexter was known for his wit and dedication, his passion for politics, and his love of video games. He was an active member of the Dawkins Family Foundation and a devoted coach for various football and soccer teams in the Sanford community, even leading them to an undefeated season.