Gabriel M. Rivera

Gabriel Rivera, 83, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2025. He was born on February 17, 1942, In Corpus Christi, Texas to Francisco Rivera and Vivian Macias.
Gabriel graduated from Roy Miller High School in 1961, where he remained active in the alumni community throughout his life. In 1961, he proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving his country with great honor and pride until 1982.
Throughout his 26-year military career, Gabriel achieved the rank of Tech Sergeant and was honored with numerous decorations, including the Oak Leaf Cluster, the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Gallantry Cross with Palm, the Air Force Commendation Medal. Gabriel served as a Top-Secret Control Specialist in the U.S. Pentagon for the Department of Defense and was deeply respected for his commitment and integrity.
On February 19, 1963, Gabriel married the love of his life, Rachel Rivera. Together, they shared 43 wonderful years of marriage, had three children and were blessed with three beautiful grandchildren.
Gabriel will be remembered for his sharp sense of humor, unwavering devotion to family, and deep love for football, especially for his beloved Roy Miller Battling Bucs. He found joy in staying connected with his roots and took great pride in being a part of the Roy Miller 1960 Alumni Committee. Once A Buc Always A Buc!
He is preceded in death by his parents, Francisco and Vivian Rivera; his wife, Rachel Rivera; his sisters Manuela Rivera, Aurora Garza, Rosa Garza, Petra Espinosa; and his brothers Jessie Rivera and Carlos Rivera.
Gabriel is survived by his three children: Sylvia Lee, Kris Cardona (Raul Cardona), Rick Rivera (Margie Rivera); his grandchildren: Garrett Lee, Stephen Cardona, and Emily Rivera; his sister Mary Rivera, his brothers Danny Rivera, Ernest Rivera, Lupe Rivera, and Ray Rivera. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, veteran, and friend. His legacy of strength, service, and love will live on in all who knew him.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 9, 2025 at Seaside Funeral Home Chapel, with a rosary to be recited at 11:00 a.m. Interment to immediately follow at Seaside Memorial Park.