Heather Laurie Rivers Biernat

Heather Laurie Rivers Biernat, age 74, of Palestine, Texas passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at her home with her loving husband and two sisters by her side. She was born on January 26, 1952, in Denver, Colorado to parents Dr. Franklin Musser Rivers and Lois Verle Rogers Rivers.

Heather's laughter was contagious, and her kindness knew no bounds. She had a unique ability to strike up a conversation with anyone she met, making lasting friendships and touching lives with her warmth and genuine interest in others.

Throughout her life, Heather's love for animals and bird watching brought her immense joy. Her collection of rocks from various adventures stood as a testament to her appreciation for the Earth's treasures. She found beauty in the simplest of things, and her enthusiasm for life was infectious.

She is preceded in death by her parents Dr. Franklin M. and Verle Rivers; daughter, Shannon Elise Rivers; and sister, Robin Rivers.

Heather is survived by her devoted husband of 43 years, Jerry Biernat, who was her partner in every sense of the word. Her sisters and brother, Michele Rivers Cartafalsa, Melissa Rivers Rice, and Dr. Franklin M. Rivers, Jr., will remember her sense of humor and mischievous nature, always ready with a joke or a kind word to lift their spirits. Heather's legacy continues through her grandchildren, Amber Nicole Biernat, Jerry Allen Kelly, and one great-grandchild, Anakin Grey Rivers Kelly, who were the light of her life and whom she adored beyond measure.

The family will honor Heather's wishes to be cremated and a celebration at a later date.

Cremation services for Heather Rivers Biernat are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas. Please visit her online memorial tribute at www.rhonefuneralhome.com, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with her family.