Obituary published on Legacy.com by R.W. Walker Funeral Home and Cremation Service - Plattsburgh on Jan. 27, 2026.
Jacob Ryan Rivers passed away tragically in an automobile accident on January 23, 2026, at the age of 41. Born on March 25, 1984, Jacob lived a life defined by loyalty, strength, generosity, and a personality that filled every room he entered.
Jacob is survived by his loving parents, Steven and Cheryl Rivers; his sister, Megan Rivers; and his beloved 14-year-old daughter, Addilyn Louise Rivers, who was the light of his life and his greatest pride. Being her father was Jacob's most treasured role, and his love for her was unwavering and boundless. He is survived by Addilyn's mother, Jill Pedulla. He is also survived by Reese LeMay, with whom he formed a special and meaningful bond in just six short months-a testament to Jacob's immense heart and the love he gave so freely. He also leaves behind his cherished aunt Tammy, as well as many other aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends.
Jacob graduated from Beekmantown Central School in 2002 before continuing his education at Norwich University, where he proudly competed on the wrestling team. He earned his degree in Physical Education in 2007, a reflection of both his discipline and his desire to work with and mentor others.
A lifelong electrician with more than 23 years of experience serving his local community, Jacob took great pride in his trade and the relationships he built through his work. He later brought that same dedication to teaching, spending two years at BOCES instructing young students in the electrical trade-leaving a lasting impression on those who were fortunate enough to learn from him.
Jake possessed the kindest heart, paired with the spirit of a fierce protector. If you were a friend to Jake once, you were a friend forever. Loyal, loud, and larger than life, he loved deeply and lived fully, creating memories that will be cherished by all who knew him.
Jacob has been reunited in heaven with his beloved sisters, Stephanie Ann and Marcy Lynn, along with his paternal grandparents, Lawrence and Delores Rivers, and his maternal grandmother, Elizabeth Ann Shepard. He is also joined there by his loving companion, Kendall LeMay.
To those select few who understand it, the phrase "brown brown, cow down" will forever bring a smile-and a reminder of Jacob's unique spirit and the bond he shared with those closest to him.
Jacob's legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through friendship, mentorship, laughter, and love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Visitation will be held Monday, February 2, 2026 from 3:00pm to 6:00 at the R.W. Walker Funeral Home in Plattsburgh. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, February 3rd at 10:00am at St. Peter's Church in Plattsburgh. Burial will be at a later date in St. Peter's cemetery in the spring.
To those unable to attend Jacob's Mass in person, you may join virtually via Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81864186237?pwd=ZDnbubaUXqUMnHKpPG8R2MKgGwQpWc.1 Passcode: 02032026, Meeting ID: 818 6418 6237.
Memorial donations in memory of Jacob may be made directly to the family in support of the Jacob Rivers Memorial Scholarship Fund.
To share a condolence, story, or photo with the family please visit, www.rwwalkerfh.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted into the care of the R.W. Walker Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 69 Court Street,
Plattsburgh, NY.
To send a flower arrangement in memory of Jacob Ryan Rivers, please click here to visit our sympathy store.